Agenda for Cabinet on Thursday, 9th June, 2011, 4.00pm

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Agenda, decisions and minutes

Venue: Council Chamber, Hove Town Hall

Contact: Tanya Davies, Acting Democratic Services Manager 

Media

Items
No. Item

1.

Procedural Business

    (a)   Declarations of Interest by all Members present of any personal interests in matters on the agenda, the nature of any interest and whether the Members regard the interest as prejudicial under the terms of the Code of Conduct.

     

    (b)   Exclusion of Press and Public - To consider whether, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted, or the nature of the proceedings, the press and public should be excluded from the meeting when any of the following items are under consideration.

     

    NOTE:  Any item appearing in Part 2 of the Agenda states in its heading either that it is confidential or the category under which the information disclosed in the report is exempt from disclosure and therefore not available to the public.

     

    A list and description of the categories of exempt information is available for public inspection at Brighton and Hove Town Halls.

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    1a        Declarations of Interest

     

    1a.1    Councillors Kennedy and Wakefield each declared a personal and prejudicial interest in Item 22, a confidential report of the Director of Finance concerning reimbursement arrangements for concessionary bus travel, as they were shareholders in the Big Lemon Bus Company. Both left the meeting during consideration on the item and did not take part in the decision.

     

    1b       Exclusion of Press and Public

     

    1b.1    In accordance with section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972 (‘the Act’), it was considered whether the press and public should be excluded from the meeting during an item of business on the grounds that it was likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the press or public were present during that item, there would be disclosure to them of confidential information (as defined in section 100A(3) of the Act) or exempt information (as defined in section 100I(1) of the Act).

     

    1b.2    RESOLVED – That the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of Items 21 onwards.

2.

Minutes of the previous meeting pdf icon PDF 148 KB

    Minutes of the Meeting held on 7 April 2011 (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    2.1             RESOLVED- That the minutes of the meeting held on 7 April 2011 be approved as a correct record.

3.

Chairman's Communications

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    3.1             The Chair noted that the meeting would be webcast.

     

    3.2             The Chair stated that the city had elected the UK’s first Green-led council and that change and a different way of working would follow. He advised that the new Administration was committed to producing practical answers to the city’s challenges in spite of challenging financial circumstances, and would deliver high-quality, efficient and effective services in partnership with trade unions, the community and voluntary sector, the business community and residents. The Chair stated that the Administration had the following three keys aims for their four year term (for full details see webcast):

     

    1.      Tackling inequalities:

    2.      Making Brighton and Hove Britain’s greenest city

    3.      Involving residents, communities and community and voluntary organisations in everything we do

4.

Items reserved for discussion

    (a)   Items reserved by the Cabinet Members.

     

    (b)   Items reserved by the Opposition Spokespeople.

     

    (c)    Items reserved by Members, with the agreement of the Chairman.

     

    NOTE: Public Questions, Written Questions from Councillors, Petitions, Deputations, Letters from Councillors and Notices of Motion will be reserved automatically.

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    4.1             RESOLVED – That all the items be reserved for discussion.

5.

Petitions pdf icon PDF 60 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    5(i)      Clean up after your pets – dog fouling, North Portslade

     

    5i.1      Councillor Carden presented a petition signed by 129 people calling for the council to take urgent action against dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets in North Portslade. He suggested that officers from the Animal Welfare Team attend summer fayres in the area to raise awareness and educate dog owners about the health risks to children and others.

     

    5i.2      The Chair acknowledged that dog fouling was an issue right across the city and that he supported the suggestion to educate people through community events.

     

    5i.3      Councillor West advised that he took the issue very seriously and recognised the dangers for children in particular. He stated that officers would respond in relation to the specific problems in North Portslade and gave assurances that the citywide issue was high on his agenda.

     

    5i.4      RESOLVED – That the petition be noted.

6.

Public Questions pdf icon PDF 55 KB

    (The closing date for receipt of public questions is 12 noon on 2 June 2011)

     

    (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    6.1             The Chair reported that one public question had been received.

     

    6.2             Ms  Claire Blakemore asked the following question on behalf of the Youth Advocacy Project:

     

    On 22/03/2011 Care Leavers were removed from ‘priority need’ category for housing allocations. It appears there was no consultation of Care-Leavers or consideration of this group in the Equalities Impact Assessment.  

     

    In the minutes of Housing Cabinet Meeting 22/03/11 the Green Party state “the policy is in serious danger of being discriminatory of those most in need”.

     

    In future we request a full consultation with service users and any change in policy to be presented to the Corporate Parenting Board for scrutiny and ratification.

     

    Can you assure us that this matter will be given the highest priority and resolved immediately?

     

    6.3             The Chair reported that he and Councillor Mitchell had met with a group of Care-Leavers earlier in the year and shared concerns about the housing issues they faced. He had requested that it be a priority issue for discussion at the next meeting of the Corporate Parenting Board. He advised that the Administration was committed to doing more to support Care-Leavers.

     

    6.4             Councillor Wakefield gave the following response:

     

    “Thank you for your question. I agree with the general point that you made about Care-Leavers and, of course, we’ll always work to protect those that are most vulnerable in society

     

    The allocation policy review in March 2011 was a major piece of work and, although the politics of the council were different at that time, the views of the Green Party remain consistent and we take this very seriously.

     

    I would like to make a couple of points of clarification. We looked back at the paperwork and the minutes of the Housing Cabinet Member Meeting that you refer to in your question don’t actually reference a quote from the Green Party because they weren’t in fact any Green Party Members present at that meeting; however, former Councillor Rachel fryer did intervene to amend the report considered by the meeting to make some points on behalf of the Green Group. Her views included that fact that, at the time the report was being drafted, the Equalities Impact Assessment had not been seen and also the view that the policy that was proposed to be amended was in danger of being discriminatory to those most in need. We realise that this could include Care-Leavers and I can assure you that the matter you raise will be of highest priority

     

    A few points just to reassure new colleagues here who many not be aware of the level of work that the officers have actually carried out on this already. Some consultation on the allocations policy was carried out at the time and under our new Administration, which is committed to open government, we can assure you that there will be further consultation with tenants. It was as a direct result of their input that the allocation policy was changed. An Equalities Impact Assessment was carried out and was provided when the report was considered.

     

    There’s a general agreement that the most suitable accommodation for young people, including Care-Leavers, is supported accommodation and we’ve already developed various projects and are looking to fill any gaps in their provision”.

     

    6.5             Ms Blakemore asked the following supplementary question:

     

    “Will you consider those currently affected and can any further decisions be put on hold until the matter is looked into because young people are still receiving letters to say that they won’t be getting the housing they were expecting to get?”

     

    6.6             Councillor Wakefield gave the following response:

     

    “I will raise that with the officers involved and we will look into it further.”

7.

Deputations pdf icon PDF 65 KB

    (The closing date for receipt of deputations is 12 noon on 2 June 2011)

     

    (a)         Deputation concerning the grassed resident amenity space at Conway Court, Clarendon & Ellen Estate – Ms Valerie Paynter (Spokesperson).

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    7.1             The Chair reported that one deputation had been received.

     

    7.2             The Cabinet considered a deputation presented by Ms Valerie Paynter concerning grassed resident amenity space at Conway Court, Clarendon & Ellen Estate and calling for the council to defend it from use by non-residents and encroachment by local organisations and amenities. Ms Paynter also presented a petition on the subject signed by 81 people.

     

    7.3             Councillor Wakefield noted that the issue related to use of the lawned area, but that it also touched on a number of other issues, such as planning. She advised that she would ask officers in Housing, Planning and Children’s Services to respond to all of the important points raised in the deputation.

     

    7.4             RESOLVED – That the deputation and petition be noted.

8.

Letters from Councillors pdf icon PDF 55 KB

    (The closing date for receipt of letters from Councillors is 10.00am on 27 May 2011)

     

    (a)         Request for urgent review of sale of Council land, Whitehawk. Letter from Councillors Mitchell, Morgan and Turton (copy attached).

     

    (b)        Whitehawk Primary School Play Area. Letter from Councillor Morgan (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    8A       Request for urgent review of sale of Council land

     

    8a.1    The Cabinet considered a letter from Councillors Mitchell, Morgan and Turton requesting that an urgent review of the sale of Council owned land currently occupied by Whitehawk Library and Whitehawk Youth Centre on Whitehawk Road/Findon Road be commissioned, and the possibility of providing additional housing on the site in addition to re-provision of a youth centre be examined.

     

    8a.2    The Chair acknowledged that there were a number of significant issues to be addressed in the Whitehawk area and advised that he had asked officers to provide further information to the Cabinet to ensure that work could focus on solutions that would make the biggest difference within the resources available. He proposed that a report be brought back to the Cabinet in September and welcomed the ongoing involvement of the East Brighton ward councillors in any discussions.

     

    8a.3    RESOLVED

     

    (1)               That the letter be noted.

     

    (2)               That a review of the sale of the land currently occupied by Whitehawk Library and Whitehawk Youth Centre on Whitehawk Road/Findon Road be commissioned and a report be brought back to the Cabinet in September 2011.

     

    8B       Whitehawk Primary School play area

     

    8b.1    The Cabinet considered a letter from Councillor Morgan concerning loss of the use of the grassed area used by Whitehawk Primary School for school sports due to work on the Whitehawk Co-Location project, and requesting that consideration be given to providing the school with exclusive use of land to the north of the school, currently designated as housing land, instead of land situated across the road from the school, which is often used by members of the public for exercising dogs.

     

    8b.2    Councillor Morgan noted the following issues with the land currently used as raised by representatives of the School Council and Green Team: dog fouling; time take to walk there; access issues for children with special educational needs; rubbish; holes in the ground.

     

    8b.3    Councillor Mitchell stated that the existing site presented serious equalities issues and the council had failed to provide a ramp. She hoped that departments would work together to find a solution.

     

    8b.4    Councillor Shanks confirmed that she would ask officers in the relevant departments to work collaboratively on the matter. She added that she welcomed input from young people about their schools.

     

    8b.5    RESOLVED – That the letter be noted.

     

9.

Written Questions from Councillors

    (The closing date for receipt of written questions from Councillors is 10.00am on 27 May 2011)

     

    No written questions have been received.

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    9.1             There were none.

10.

Notices of Motion

11.

State of the City report and summary pdf icon PDF 77 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet reviews and notes the contents of the State of the City report and summary.

     

    (2)         That Cabinet approves the report and summary for publication by July, to inform future commissioning decisions.

    Minutes:

    11.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources concerning the State of the City report and summary, which provided a snapshot of the city in terms of its characteristics and key issues, with an ultimate aim of creating a shared sense of priorities.

     

    11.2         The Chair explained that the report would allow for a wider perspective on the challenges faced by the city and begin looking for solutions.

     

    11.3         Councillor Theobald welcomed the report and noted that it did not contain anything unexpected. He asked for clarity on the new Administration’s stance on Intelligent Commissioning and associated timescales.

     

    11.4         The Chair advised that he had always been supportive on the concept of Intelligent Commissioning, but that he did not approve of the way it was introduced due to the high costs to the council and the potential for outsourcing under the previous Administration. He acknowledged the success of the pilots and the need to make further progress; the State of the City report would enable the council to establish new priorities and begin tackling the issues affecting the city.

     

    11.5         Councillor Mitchell welcomed the report, which brought together information from other strategic plans from the council’s partner organisations. She acknowledged successes achieved in tackled drug treatment and smoking cessation. She stated that she would like to see early work on the following:

    §         Secondary school performance

    §         Waste performance and recycling rates

    §         Allotment provision

    §         Bus congestion

    §         Use of leisure facilities and parks by residents living in areas of deprivation

     

    11.6         In response to comments from opposition Members, Councillor West stated that improving the recycling rate and introducing food waste recycling were a high priority; the issue of fortnightly rubbish collections had not yet been determined as ideas were still being formulated.

     

    11.7         The Chair thanked Paula Black and Claire Wardman for their work on producing the report.

     

    11.8         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)       That the contents of the State of the City report and summary be reviewed and noted.

     

    (2)       That the report and summary be approved for publication by July, to inform future commissioning decisions.

12.

Olympics Torch Relay pdf icon PDF 90 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Communities (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet notes the contents of the report, and in particular, the agreement to host the Olympic Torch Relay event and associated celebrations.

     

    (2)         That Cabinet authorises the Chief Executive, the Strategic Director for Communities and other relevant officers to take any steps necessary or incidental to organising and holding the event.

     

    (3)         That Cabinet notes that a further report will be submitted in November 2011 that sets out, in detail, how Brighton & Hove City Council, and the city as a whole, will seek to ensure the significant opportunities arising from the Games are exploited fully for those that live, work and visit the city.

    Minutes:

    12.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Communities concerning the city’s selection by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG), as one of 70 key iconic locations in the UK, to host an evening celebration for the Olympic Torch Relay on Monday, 16 July 2012.

     

    12.2         Councillor Bowden reported that the decision to host the Olympic Torch had been taken quickly due to time constraints and that it the city’s selection was a honour. He advised that officers had begun work on the details of the event and that opportunities for involvement from local sponsors would be investigated.

     

    12.3         Councillor Mitchell welcomed the decision to host the event and the opportunity it presented for the city and its residents, but noted that the report contained no financial implications at this stage. She stated that past Olympic events had been used by protesters as an opportunity to promote various campaigns and queried whether Councillor Duncan’s recent comments welcoming protesters was wise given that the city needed to continue to attract visitors and events to the city. She added that residents were being affected by the presence of protester camps in the city.

     

    12.4         The Chief Executive reported that security costs would be borne by LOCOG and that the precise details of the event were still under discussion, but that LOCOG were aware of the council’s concerns over costs. He advised that the possibility of involving local sponsors would be explored, but that it was important to be aware that opportunities were limited by the Olympics Act of Parliament.

     

    12.5         Councillor Theobald welcomed the event and the opportunity for residents to participate, but stated that it was unfortunate that it had been linked to recent issues about protests. He noted Councillor Duncan’s views, but advised that the presence of protester camps in the city’s parks and gardens would be detrimental in a city that relied heavily on business and tourism.

     

    12.6         Councillor Duncan advised that the Administration had stated that the council and the Police had a duty to facilitate lawful protest and that the council had liaised with the Police and local communities on the approach. A clear stance would ensure that all protests would be facilitated efficiently and cost-effectively, including any taking place at the time of the Olympic Torch Relay. He added that while he did not support the choice of sponsors for the Olympics, the event was an important opportunity for the city.

     

    In relation to the protester camp at the Old Steine, the Administration were supportive of the right to protest peacefully, however, the presence of the camp contravened city byelaws; action had been taken and the protesters had agreed to vacate the site.

     

    Councillor Duncan stated that the Administration’s stance was consistent with its view prior to the election and that this had been communicated to the public in a number of ways.

     

    12.7         Councillor Bowden reported that views on the encampment, including those of local residents, visitors and business, had been equally split between those who supported it and those against it.

     

    12.8         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That the contents of the report, and in particular, the agreement to host the Olympic Torch Relay event and associated celebrations be noted.

     

    (2)         That the Chief Executive, the Strategic Director for Communities and other relevant officers be authorised to take any steps necessary or incidental to organising and holding the event.

     

    (3)         That it be noted that a further report would be submitted in November 2011 setting out, in detail, how Brighton & Hove City Council, and the city as a whole, would seek to ensure the significant opportunities arising from the Games were exploited fully for those that live, work and visit the city.

13.

Single Equality Scheme update pdf icon PDF 92 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Communities (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet supports the work to reduce inequality across the city and note progress made so far against the objectives set out in the Single Equality Scheme Action Plan.

     

    (2)         That Cabinet notes plans for a review of the Scheme and, concurrently, the council’s Equality and Inclusion Policy, to build on existing good practice and ensure outcomes that make a real and lasting difference to the way the city deals with these priority areas of work.

    Minutes:

    13.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Communities concerning an update on progress against the Single Equality Scheme Action Plan.

     

    13.2         Councillor Duncan confirmed that the council would continue to carry out Equalities Impact Assessments for its own work regardless of central Government plans to abolish such requirements.

     

    13.3         Councillor Mitchell welcomed the report. She noted that the new Administration would need time to reprioritise, but asked whether the budget amendment to retain the post of Hate Crime Worker would be honoured. She acknowledged the use of the Community Engagement Framework (CEF) and praised the approach.

     

    13.4         Councillor Theobald noted that excellence in the Equalities Standard for Local Government had been achieved under the previous Administration. He asked how national changes to the ‘Prevent’ strategy, designed to tackle terrorism and extremism, would impact on the local approach.

     

    13.5         Councillor Duncan commended the CEF and reported that a wide range of groups were supportive of its use. He advised that the new Administration had its own priorities, which would influence the council’s work on equalities, but that much of the content of the report applied to the city’s family of partnerships. He added that the Police would feed into the local review of the ‘Prevent’ project.

     

    13.6         In response to questions from opposition Members, the Strategic Director, Communities advised that outcomes from the Turning the Tide report, which concerned social inclusion, had informed a number of pieces of work; he agreed to provide Councillor Mitchell with further details and also to circulate an update about the retention of the Hate Crime Worker post. With regard to the ‘Prevent’ agenda, he explained that the city had taken an inclusive approach and that consideration would be given to the effect of central Government changes on community groups.

     

    13.7         The Chair acknowledged the work of the Communities & Equalities Team in producing the report and in particular Mary Evans and Sarah Tighe-Ford.

     

    13.8         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That the work to reduce inequality across the city be endorsed and progress made so far against the objectives set out in the Single Equality Scheme Action Plan be noted.

     

    (2)         That plans for a review of the Scheme and, concurrently, the council’s Equality and Inclusion Policy, to build on existing good practice and ensure outcomes that make a real and lasting difference to the way the city deals with these priority areas of work, be noted.

14.

Surveillance Policy pdf icon PDF 72 KB

    Report of the Director of Finance (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet approves the continued use of covert surveillance and the accessing of communications data as an enforcement tool to prevent and detect all crime and disorder investigated by its officers, providing the necessity and proportionality rules are stringently applied.

     

    (2)         That Cabinet notes the surveillance activity undertaken by the authority since the last report to Cabinet in March 2011 as set out in Appendix 1.

     

    (3)         That the Cabinet notes the outcome of the internal review and approves the implementation of the proposed changes with immediate effect.

    Minutes:

    14.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Finance informing Members of the activities that had been undertaken utilising the powers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) since the last report to Cabinet in March 2011.

     

    14.2         The Chair noted that the powers continued to be used sparingly and that he welcomed the approach taken by officers.

     

    14.3         In response to questions from Councillor Theobald, the Director of Finance advised that the statistics were broadly similar to previous years and agreed to add comparative figures to the next report. She explained that the council was obliged to report any errors that occurred and noted that the error in the report was a breach that had been outside of the council’s control.

     

    14.4         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That the continued use of covert surveillance and the accessing of communications data as an enforcement tool to prevent and detect all crime and disorder investigated by its officers, providing the necessity and proportionality rules are stringently applied, be approved.

     

    (2)         That the surveillance activity undertaken by the authority since the last report to Cabinet in March 2011, as set out in Appendix 1, be noted.

     

    (3)         That the outcome of the internal review be noted and approval be given for the implementation of the proposed changes with immediate effect.

15.

Targeted Budget Management (TBM) Provisional Outturn 2010/11 pdf icon PDF 91 KB

    Report of the Director of Finance (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet notes the provisional outturn position for the General Fund, which is an underspend of £2.560m.

     

    (2)         That Cabinet notes the provisional outturn for the Section 75 Partnerships and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for 2010/11.

     

    (3)         That the Cabinet approve the carry forwards as detailed in Appendix 3.

     

    (4)         That the Cabinet note the provisional outturn position on the capital programme.

     

    (5)         That the Cabinet approve the following changes to the capital programme:

     

    i)    The budget reprofiling as set out in Appendix 4;

     

    ii)   The carry forward of slippage into the 2010/11 capital programme, to meet on-going commitments on these schemes as set out in Appendix 5.

    Minutes:

    15.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Finance concerning the council’s provisional outturn position (Month 12) on the revenue and capital budgets for the financial year 2010/11.

     

    15.2         Councillor Kitcat advised that the new Administration was committed to achieving value for money for the city’s residents despite the cuts imposed on the council by central Government. He thanked the officers responsible for looking after the council’s finances for their ongoing vigilance.

     

    15.3         Councillor Theobald stated that the previous Administration had left the council with a significant underspend, regardless of the challenging financial circumstances and cuts to budgets, through a programme of careful financial management.

     

    15.4         Councillor Mitchell noted the large overspend in the Communications budget and the underspend in the Housing Revenue Account repairs budget, despite demand for repairs and maintenance across the city.

     

    15.5         Councillor Kitcat explained that the Communications overspend was due to the presentation of the accounts. The repairs underspend was based on predictions rather than real figures; now that the new repairs and maintenance contract was in operation, the figures had been reworked and would be reported as part of the next TBM report.

     

    15.6         The Chair reported that he had prepared a letter to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles MP, and that he would be requesting a meeting to discuss the council’s financial settlement and other important matters.

     

    15.7         In response to questions from Councillor Theobald, the Director of Finance explained that slippage relating to car parks was due to ongoing works on The Lanes Car Park. She advised that more work was required on the business case before the report on ‘Investment in City Infrastructure – Car Park Improvement – Phase II’ could be considered by the Cabinet; it was anticipated that it would come to the next meeting in July.

     

    15.8         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That the provisional outturn position for the General Fund, which is an underspend of £2.560m, be noted.

     

    (2)         That the provisional outturn for the Section 75 Partnerships and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for 2010/11 be noted.

     

    (3)         That the carry forwards as detailed in Appendix 3 be approved.

     

    (4)         That the provisional outturn position on the capital programme be noted.

     

    (5)         That the following changes to the capital programme be approved:

     

    i)    The budget reprofiling as set out in Appendix 4;

     

    ii)   The carry forward of slippage into the 2010/11 capital programme, to meet on-going commitments on these schemes as set out in Appendix 5.

16.

Photovoltaic Solar Panel Implementation Plan for non-housing properties pdf icon PDF 95 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet notes the outcome of the initial soft tendering exercise and recent framework contract development indicates that there is an outline business case to support delivery of a solar photovoltaic scheme across the council’s non-housing stock that saves energy costs and reduces carbon emissions.

     

    (2)         That Cabinet approves the installation of Photovoltaic Solar Panels on the properties highlighted in appendix 1 subject to completion of the tendering exercise and the financial viability of each site.

     

    (3)         That Cabinet approve funding of up to £2.6m for the sites identified within Appendix 1. The business case will be funded through a combination of borrowing and the use of reserves subject to the Council’s overall financial position.

     

    (4)         That Cabinet delegates authority to the Strategic Director Resources and the Director Finance, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance & Central Services to allow them to approve the purchase and installation of the panels for these identified properties through the self finance route, once more detailed costs are provided at the end of the tender process. This will allow the Council to move quickly and take advantage of the energy savings and be able to collect the full Feed in Tariff from the start.

    Minutes:

    16.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources providing an update on the implementation of renewables within non-housing Council properties and in particular the installation of Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to roof spaces on a select list of sites; the report sought approval for the purchase of solar panel equipment once detailed figures and a viable business case had been demonstrated at the end of the procurement process.

     

    16.2         Councillor Kitcat advised that 40 sites had been identified and that it was hoped that progress on 23 of them would be made quite quickly. The intention was for the scheme to be self-financed as this would achieve the best value for money for the council. It was anticipated that the Feed In Tariff (FIT) would bring in revenue of between £40,000 and £160,000 each year.

     

    16.3         Councillor Theobald welcomed the continuation of an initiative that had been started under the previous Administration and noted the potential for financial savings and reducing carbon emissions. He questioned whether self-financing the scheme would be more beneficial than seeking private seeking funding.

     

    16.4         Councillor Mitchell welcomed the proposals and highlighted the importance of timing. She noted the cross-party support for the initiative, both locally and nationally, but stated that she had been disappointed that there was no mention of the work undertaken by a recent scrutiny panel on the issue and that the panel had not been privy to much of the information in the report.

     

    16.5         Councillor Kitcat agreed to provide a more detailed written response about the financing of the initiative, but explained that the council could borrow money more cheaply than private sector companies, resulting in a better deal. He stated that, with regard to work of the scrutiny panel, the new Administration intended to be open and inclusive, which included co-operating with Overview & Scrutiny.

     

    16.6         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That it be noted that the outcome of the initial soft tendering exercise and recent framework contract development indicated that there was an outline business case to support delivery of a solar photovoltaic scheme across the council’s non-housing stock that would save energy costs and reduce carbon emissions.

     

    (2)         That the installation of Photovoltaic Solar Panels on the properties highlighted in appendix 1 be approved, subject to completion of the tendering exercise and the financial viability of each site.

     

    (3)         That funding of up to £2.6m for the sites identified within Appendix 1 be approved. The business case would be funded through a combination of borrowing and the use of reserves subject to the Council’s overall financial position.

     

    (4)         That authority be delegated to the Strategic Director, Resources and the Director Finance, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance & Central Services to allow them to approve the purchase and installation of the panels for the identified properties through the self finance route, once more detailed costs were provided at the end of the tender process. This would allow the Council to move quickly and take advantage of the energy savings and be able to collect the full Feed in Tariff from the start.

17.

Community Stadium - Park Wall Farm pdf icon PDF 68 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet agrees in principle the disposal to The Community Stadium Ltd of land that previously formed part of Park Wall Farm (shown on plan attached at Appendix 1) on long leasehold for 125 years and that agreement to the terms of the disposal be delegated to the Strategic Director Resources in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance and Central Services.

    Minutes:

    17.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources making recommendations for the disposal of land that was previously part of Park Wall Farm for a car park adjacent to the Community Stadium site.

     

    17.2         Councillor Theobald questioned the need for an additional recommendation in the Part Two report at Item 23. He asked whether consideration had been given to using the site as a Park & Ride facility on non-match days.

     

    17.3         The Head of Legal & Democratic Services explained that it would have been difficult to report the additional recommendation in the public report with making reference to the confidential information.

     

    17.4         Councillor Kitcat advised that by disposing of the land in this way the council was fulfilling the obligations entered into by the previous Administration and that consideration of a Park & Ride facility was not a factor.

     

    17.5         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That agrees in principle be given for the disposal to The Community Stadium Ltd of land that previously formed part of Park Wall Farm (shown on plan attached at Appendix 1) on long leasehold for 125 years and that agreement to the terms of the disposal be delegated to the Strategic Director Resources in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance & Central Services.

18.

Patcham Place pdf icon PDF 81 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet authorise the marketing of Patcham Place including the stable building by appointing agents for disposal by way of a long leasehold interest.

     

    (2)         That Cabinet will consider a subsequent Cabinet report summarising the results of the marketing exercise and bids received and providing recommendations for disposal. The net capital receipt shall be used to support the council’s corporate accommodation strategy, value for money and capital programme.

    Minutes:

    18.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources seeking approval to market and sell the Patcham Place on a long leasehold interest.

     

    18.2         Councillor Mitchell stated that she hoped that the nature of the disposal would be in the best interests if the whole city and also provide jobs. She noted that the site was in a prime location on the edge of the South Downs and that an appropriate use should be sought.

     

    18.3         Councillor Theobald stated that he had been disappointed that the South Downs National Park Authority had declined to use the site for its headquarters. He highlighted concerns about protection of the existing listed building and the need to move quickly to secure a use compatible with the conservation area and location, and retains existing rights of way.

     

    18.4         Councillor Kitcat advised that the council would keep an open mind as to the preferred use of the site until bids had been received and that the intention was to move quickly in order to best protect the listed building.

     

    18.5         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That the marketing of Patcham Place, including the stable building, by appointing agents for disposal by way of a long leasehold interest be authorised.

     

    (2)         That a subsequent report summarising the results of the marketing exercise and bids received and providing recommendations for disposal be considered by the Cabinet. The net capital receipt shall be used to support the council’s corporate accommodation strategy, value for money and capital programme.

19.

Procurement of Vehicles pdf icon PDF 85 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Place (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet approves the fleet vehicle replacement programme up to 2016/17 outlined in Appendix A, which will be subject to approval of the annual Capital Investment Programme by Full Council and subject to an annual review of all vehicle replacement programmes to determine if the need for new vehicles as specified still exists.

     

    (2)         That following the approval of detailed business cases by the Director of Finance, tenders be placed through either the EU procurement process or through existing legally compliant national framework agreements and that delegated authority be given to the Director of Finance to award current and future years’ the contract(s).

     

    (3)         That the recommendations from the Environment & Community Safety Overview & Scrutiny Committee be approved.

    Minutes:

    19.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources concerning the development and implementation of a fleet replacement programme to reduce carbon emissions and delivering value for money savings.

     

    19.2         Councillor West noted that that the investment would result in savings of around £124,000 over a number of years. He advised that the fleet contributed 8% to the council’s total carbon emissions and that the replacement programme would reduce the contribution by 22%, as well as achieving value for money for residents and improved working conditions for staff.

     

    19.3         Councillor Mitchell welcomed the proposals and commended the recommendations put forward by the Environment & Community Safety Overview & Scrutiny.

     

    19.4         Councillor Theobald noted that work on the proposals had begun under the previous Administration. He sought further clarity around the financial information and in particular questioned the cost of individual vehicles.

     

    19.5         The Strategic Director, Place agreed to provide further information about the financial implications in writing, but added that vehicles were more expensive because a number of multi-purpose vehicles would be purchased in order to accommodate wheelchair users and other disabled users.

     

    19.6         The Chair advised that the mobile library would be replaced separately and that he had asked officers to ensure that the replacement be as green as possible.

     

    19.7         In response to a question from Councillor Mitchell, Councillor West confirmed that the new gritting vehicles did not form part of the replacement programme.

     

    19.8         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (1)         That the fleet vehicle replacement programme up to 2016/17, outlined in Appendix A, be approved and that it be subject to the approval of the annual Capital Investment Programme by Full Council and subject to an annual review of all vehicle replacement programmes to determine if the need for new vehicles as specified still existed.

     

    (2)         That, following the approval of detailed business cases by the Director of Finance, tenders be placed through either the EU procurement process or through existing legally compliant national framework agreements and that delegated authority be given to the Director of Finance to award current and future years’ the contract(s).

     

    (3)         That the recommendations from the Environment & Community Safety Overview & Scrutiny Committee be approved.

20.

Cabinet Portfolios and Ways of Working pdf icon PDF 78 KB

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy attached).

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    (1)         That Cabinet:

       

    (a)         Notes the Cabinet portfolios approved by the Leader on 19th May 2011 as set out at Appendix One ad the explanatory note as set out in appendix 2;

     

    (b)         Agrees the proposals in paragraph 4 of the report regarding the arrangements for Cabinet Member Meetings;

     

    (c)         Notes that the new Cabinet arrangements and any further modification to ways of working will be considered by the Governance Committee and any changes reported to Cabinet for approval.

    Minutes:

    20.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources confirming the Cabinet portfolios agreed by the Leader of the Council on 19 May 2011 and proposing arrangements for the Cabinet Member Meetings to support the new portfolios.

     

    20.2         The Chair reported that Chief Inspector Graham Bartlett of Sussex Police was supportive of the proposed approach to public health, which would see it sit alongside work on communities, equalities and public protection.

     

    20.3         Councillor Theobald stated that it had been unfortunate that a special meeting of the Governance Committee had not been called to consider the proposals first and that the dissolution of the Sustainability Cabinet Committee was disappointing.

     

    20.4         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the following recommendations:

     

    (a)         That the Cabinet portfolios approved by the Leader on 19th May 2011, as set out at Appendix One, and the explanatory note, as set out in appendix 2, be noted.

     

    (b)         That the proposals in paragraph 4 of the report regarding the arrangements for Cabinet Member Meetings be approved.

     

    (c)         That it be noted that the new Cabinet arrangements and any further modification to ways of working would be considered by the Governance Committee and any changes reported to Cabinet for approval.

21.

Part Two Minutes of the previous meeting

22.

Concessionary Bus Travel - Reimbursement Arrangements

Decision:

As per the Part Two confidential report.

Minutes:

22.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Finance concerning reimbursement arrangements for concessionary bus travel.

 

22.2         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the recommendations as detailed in the Part Two confidential report.

23.

Community Stadium - Park Wall Farm

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy circulated to Members only).

     

    [Exempt Category 3]

    Decision:

    As per the Part 1 decision record and the Part Two confidential report.

    Minutes:

    23.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources making recommendations for the disposal of land that was previously part of Park Wall Farm for a car park adjacent to the Community Stadium site.

     

    (1)         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the recommendations as detailed in the Part 1 report and in the Part Two confidential report.

24.

Patcham Place

    Report of the Strategic Director, Resources (copy circulated to Members only).

     

    [Exempt Category 3]

    Decision:

    As per the Part 1 decision record.

    Minutes:

    24.1         The Cabinet considered a report of the Strategic Director, Resources seeking approval to market and sell the Patcham Place on a long leasehold interest.

     

    24.2         RESOLVED - That, having considered the information and the reasons set out in the report, the Cabinet accepted the recommendations as detailed in the Part 1 report.

25.

Part Two Items

    To consider whether or not any of the above items and the decisions thereon should remain exempt from disclosure to the press and public.

    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    25.1         The Cabinet considered whether or not any of the above items should remain exempt from disclosure to the press and public.

     

    25.2         RESOLVED That items 21-24, contained in Part Two of the agenda, remain exempt from disclosure to the press and public.

 


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