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North Ayrshire Council · 6 November 2024
Back to North Ayrshire Council — 6 November 2024 and its agenda
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North Ayrshire Council 18 September 2024 At a Meeting of North Ayrshire Council at 2.00 p.m. involving a combination of participation by remote electronic means and physical attendance within the Council Chambers, Irvine Present (Physical Participation) John Bell, Eleanor Collier, Joe Cullinane, Charles Currie, Anthea Dickson, Stewart Ferguson, Todd Ferguson, Robert Foster, Scott Gallacher, Tony Gurney, Alan Hill, Cameron Inglis, Margaret Johnson, Christina Larsen, Shaun Macaulay, Tom Marshall, Jean McClung, Nairn McDonald, Matthew McLean, Davina McTiernan, Ian Murdoch, Donald Reid, Chloé Robertson, and John Sweeney. Present (Remote Electronic Participation) Louise McLaughlan, Jim Montgomerie and Donald L. Reid In Attendance C. Hatton, Chief Executive; C. Cameron, Director (Health and Social Care Partnership); D. Hammond, Executive Director (Communities and Housing); S. Anson, Executive Director (Education), L. Kirk, Head of Service (Place); M. Boyd, Head of Service (Finance); A. Craig, Head of Service (Democratic), R. Lynch, Senior Manager (Legal Services); M. McColm, Senior Manager (Communications),C. Stewart and S. Wilson, Committee Services Officers, and H. Young, Senior Committee Services Officer (Democratic) (Corporate Services). Chair Provost Dickson in the Chair. Apologies Marie Burns, Scott Davidson, Mary Hume, Amanda Kerr, Ronnie Stalker and Angela Stephen. 1. Provost's Remarks The Provost welcomed those present to the meeting and dealt with preliminary matters, including intimation that the meeting, which was taking place on a hybrid basis, was being recorded. 2. Apologies The Provost invited intimation of apologies for absence, which were recorded.
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3. Declarations of Interest In terms of Standing Order 11 and Section 5 of the Councillors' Code of Conduct, Councillor Robertson, as an employee of Aberlour Children’s Charity, declared an interest in Agenda item 16 – Motion 2. Councillor Robertson left the meeting during consideration of this motion. There were no declarations of the Party Whip. 4. Previous Minutes The accuracy of the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 26 June 2024 was confirmed and the Minutes signed in accordance with Paragraph 7(1) of Schedule 7 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. 5. Provost’s Report Submitted report by the Provost for the period from 17 June 2024 – 8 September 2024. Noted. 6. Leader’s Report Submitted report by the Leader of the Council for the period for 17 June 2024 – 9 September 2024. Noted. 7. Council Minute Volume Submitted for noting the Minutes of meetings of committees of the Council held in the period 13 June 2024 – 29 August 2024. Noted. 8. Report of the Returning Officer - Arran By-Election Submitted report by the Returning Officer on the outcome of the North Ayrshire Council Ward 4 Arran By-Election and on the Declaration of Acceptance of Office by the New Elected Member, Charles Currie, for that Ward. Noted. The Provost formally welcomed Councillor Currie to the Council.
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9. Appointments The Council was invited, in terms of Standing Order 8.5, to note the changes in the membership of the Integration Joint Board and the Planning Committee and Local Review Body Committee and, a vacancy in respect of the Vice Chair of the latter committee. Councillor McLean seconded by Councillor Robertson, moved that Councillor Inglis be appointed as Vice Chair of the Planning Committee and Local Review Body Committee. There being no other nomination, Councillor Inglis was duly appointed. Accordingly, the Council agreed as follows: (a) to note, in terms of Standing Order 8.5, that, effective from 27 August 2024 (i) Councillor Stalker was appointed to the Planning Committee and Local Review Body Committee and (ii) Councillor Marshall appointed to the Integration Joint Board; and (b) to appoint Councillor Inglis as the Vice Chair of the Planning Committee and Local Review Body Committee. 10. Appointments to Outside Bodies The Council agreed to appoint Councillor Currie to serve on the Arran Access Trust and the Arran Ferry Group. 11. Annual Review of Governance Documents The Council was invited to consider the following reports in terms of the annual review of the Council's suite of Governance documents which regulate the operation of Council, its committees and officers 11.1 Standing Orders Relating to Meetings and Proceedings of the Council and Committees Submitted report by the Chief Executive on the Standing Orders Relating to Meetings and Proceedings of the Council and Committees. Councillor Larsen, seconded by Councillor McTiernan, moved approval of the revised Scheme of Administration set out in Appendix 1 to the report. As an amendment, Councillor Cullinane, seconded by Councillor Bell, moved to delete at Standing Order 15.4, point (x) “Proposing the use of a non-recurring funding source to replace an area of proposed recurring financial saving” Members asked questions of the Section 95 Officer and the Monitoring Officer.
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The Section 95 Officer provided further clarification and confirmed the reason the recommendation was put forward as outlined in the report, was in cases where areas of proposed recurring financial savings are replaced with a non-recurring funding source, it has the effect of increasing the budget gap the next year and in view of the challenging financial climate was not a financially sustainable practice. As a further amendment, Councillor McDonald, seconded by Councillor Foster, moved to amend Standing Order 15.1 to add “Any notice of amendment or amendment lodged will contain sufficient information to give fair notice of the reasoning for the terms of the amendment”. Thereafter, Councillor T. Ferguson, seconded by Councillor Inglis, moved an amendment, to amend Standing Order 14.6 to include Champions to the list of those who can be asked questions at Council. Members asked questions of clarification of the movers of the amendments. There followed debate and summing up. In terms of Standing Order 6.8, the Provost agreed that the meeting be adjourned at 2.30 p.m. for a short comfort break to consider the motion and amendments, reconvening at 2.35 p.m. with the same Members and officers present and in attendance. On a division and roll call vote, there voted for the first amendment, Councillors Bell, Cullinane, Currie, S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Foster, Inglis, Marshall, McDonald, McLean, McLaughlan, Montgomerie, Murdoch, D. Reid, Sweeney (15) and for the motion, Councillors Collier, Dickson, Gallacher, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McClung, McTiernan, D.L. Reid and Robertson (12) and the first amendment became the substantive motion. On a further division and a roll call vote, there voted for the second amendment, Councillors Bell, Cullinane, Currie, Foster, McDonald, McLaughlan, Montgomerie, D. Reid, Sweeney (9) and for the substantive motion, Councillors Collier, Dickson, S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Gallacher, Gurney, Hill, Inglis, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, Marshall, McClung, McLean, McTiernan, Murdoch, D.L. Reid and Robertson (18) and the second amendment fell. On a further division and a roll call vote, there voted for the third amendment, Councillors S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Gallacher, Inglis, Marshall, McDonald, McLean, Murdoch (8) and for the substantive motion, Councillors Bell, Collier, Cullinane, Currie, Dickson, Foster, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McClung, McLaughlan, McTiernan, Montgomerie, D. Reid, D.L. Reid, Robertson and Sweeney (19) and the substantive motion was declared carried.
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Accordingly, the Council agreed to approve, with immediate effect, the revised Standing Orders Relating to Meetings and Proceedings of the Council and Committees set out at Appendix 1 to the report, subject to the following amendment: 1. delete at Standing Order 15.4, point (x) “Proposing the use of a non-recurring funding source to replace an area of proposed recurring financial saving” 11.2 Scheme of Administration Submitted report by the Chief Executive on the Council’s Scheme of Administration. The draft revised Scheme of Administration was set out in Appendix 1 to the report. Councillor Larsen, seconded by Councillor McTiernan, moved the approval of the revised Scheme of Administration set out in Appendix 1 to the report. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed to approve, with immediate effect, the Scheme of Administration, set out at Appendix 1 to the report. 11.3 Scheme of Delegation to Officers Submitted report by the Chief Executive on the Council’s Scheme of Delegation to Officers. The draft revised Scheme of Delegation to Officers was set out at Appendix 1 to the report. Councillor Larsen, seconded by Councillor McTiernan, moved approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed as follows: (a) to approve, with immediate effect, the Scheme of Delegation to Officers, attached at Appendix 1; and (b) to note the existing Statutory Officers. 11.4 Other Key Governance Documents Submitted report by the Chief Executive on other key governance documents regulating the operation of the Council, its committees and officers. The Guidelines on Member/ Officer Relations revised Standing Orders for Contracts and the updated Financial Regulations and Codes of Financial Practice were set out in Appendices 1-3 to the report, respectively.
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Councillor Larsen, seconded by Councillor McTiernan, moved approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed to approve, with immediate effect, (i) the Guidelines on Member/Officer Relations, attached at Appendix 1 to the report; (ii) the Standing Orders for Contracts, attached at Appendix 2 to the report; and (iii) the Financial Regulations and Codes of Financial Practice, attached at Appendices 3a and 3b to the report, respectively. 12. Committee Timetable 2025 Submitted report by the Chief Executive on a proposed timetable of meetings of the Council and its committees for the period from January – December 2025. The draft timetable was set out in the appendix to the report. Councillor Macaulay, seconded by Councillor Larsen, moved approval of the timetable of meetings of the Council and its committees for the period from January – December 2025. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed as follows: (a) to approve the draft committee timetable set out at Appendix 1 to the report; and (b) to note that any ad hoc or Special Meetings would be intimated separately to Members. 13. Irvine Town Centre: Long-term Plan for Towns Submitted a report by the Executive Director (Place) on the proposed Elected Member representation on the Irvine Town Board, with the membership set out at Appendix 1 to the report. Members asked questions and received clarification in respect of the Town Board membership and the ability to co-opt additional members. The Head of Service (Economic Development, Growth & Regeneration) confirmed the guidance allows a maximum of 5 elected representatives on the Board and therefore a further representative could be identified and considered by the Board. Councillor Macaulay, seconded by Councillor Roberston moved the approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed (a) to note the Town Board membership provided at Appendix 1; b) approve the appointment of the three Elected Members to the Town
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Board as outlined at Appendix One; and c) note the progress to date to inform the development of a Long-Term Plan. 14. Jo Cox Civility Commission – Financial Support Submitted a report by the Head of Service (Finance) on the financial support for the Jo Cox Civility Commission. Councillor Larsen, seconded by Councillor McTiernan moved the approval of the recommendations set out in the officer’s report. Accordingly, the Council agreed to make a donation of £1,000 to support the ongoing activities of the Jo Cox Civility Commission. 15. Questions In terms of Standing Order 14, submitted: (1) a question by Councillor Reid to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: I am sharing this question which is very similar to several now being received by myself from constituents. As a resident of Kilwinning I am writing to you to ask you to investigate the ongoing issue with the collection of Brown bins in this area. Several months ago all residents in this area were advised by the council that Brown bin collections would change from a Monday to a Tuesday. Residents duly placed their bins out on a Monday night ready for collection, however over the last six weeks the bins have not been collected on a Tuesday or on Wednesday but on a Thursday morning, therefore we have bins lying on drives and or edge of pavements for over two days which is unacceptable. Can the cabinet member advise me of an appropriate response given the changes to service have seen a decline in service rather than an improvement in service based on constituent feedback? Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: The introduction of new brown bin collection arrangements took place as planned. Unfortunately the introduction has been hampered by abnormally high absence rates in the Waste Service.
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In order to help address the impact of absences on service delivery, we have added a new role within the Team to help manage and monitor sickness absence and to ensure support is in place to help employees return to work. Absences are monitored on a daily basis and operational adjustments made where possible to ensure frontline bin collections are prioritised. We have also been reducing the impact on collections as far as possible by using support resources from across other services where possible. We have also required to make collections at weekends where it has not been possible to complete during the week. Frontline bin collections will continue to be prioritised to ensure missed collections are minimised. The Management Team continue to work hard managing absences, utilising additional employee resources where possible and supporting employees return to work. These actions have started to take effect with a reduction in service disruption. As a supplementary question, Councillor Reid asked if elected members can be kept updated with regards to service updates and cancellations. Councillor Gurney responded and advised they will continue to try new approaches to ensure high quality service, absences continue to be an issue and this was being addressed, it has been also requested that Councillor’s be notified of any service disruptions and it wass hoped this will be implemented soon. (2) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: The following question was submitted via Lagan on 10th August, was recorded as closed with no answer supplied and was reopened as an FOI EIR disclosure 101004640824. For the North Coast Ward 1 can you please list for each of the last 3 financial years? A. The number of grounds maintenance staff employed in each of the winter and summer seasons B. The number of plants used in summer bedding C. The cost of these plants " Why was this question reopened as an FOI and answered some 26 days later on 5th September? Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: The enquiry was logged on EMPro and allocated to the relevant queue for action on 10th August 2024.
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The officer handling the case had mistakenly re-allocated the case to the Information Governance Team, having interpreted the nature of the query to be an FOI and thereafter, closed the case to the Service. The reallocation of this case was raised with Service management who ensured that both the case handler and wider team were made aware that Members enquiries are not re-classified as Freedom of Information Requests in future. The officer acknowledged this process and manager confirmed this to be an isolated occurrence. As a supplementary question, Councillor Marshall asked if the efficiency of the EMPro system can be looked at and if an Elected Members request is logged as complete, then it is in fact complete. Councillor Larsen responded and advised the happy to do this. (3) a question by Councillor Murdoch to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: It is approaching six months since the introduction of Decriminalised Parking Enforcement, how many Parking Enforcement Officers have left or handed their notice in by the date of this meeting? Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: Four Parking Enforcement Officers have left and one has just handed in their notice. Three new Parking Enforcement Officers have been recruited and have commenced employment with a further officer due to commence training on 24 September 2024. A further job advert is being issued to fill the remaining vacancy. As a supplementary question, Councillor Murdoch asked if the Cabinet Member is concerned that four out of five Parking Enforcement Officers have left or are leaving within the first six months of the scheme. If measures will be introduced to improve working conditions, having no dedicated facilities to get warm or dry, have a break, and only one vehicle between six officers. Councillor Gurney responded and advised there are many reasons for the staff leaving, all officers have been given lists of council buildings where they can go in the local area to use the facilities, and that Parking Enforcement Officers work in town centres and it was not considered necessary for vehicles to be supplied as officers are expected to be walking and not driving.
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At the invitation of the Provost, Head of Paid Service, Craig Hatton advised that staff wellbeing was very close to his heart and a really important matter, and he would be more than happy to enter into discussions with Councillor Murdoch regarding his concerns and get a better understanding as they are somewhat different as to what he would expect across our workforce. (4) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands in the following terms: How many applications for homeless assistance were received in a) 2022- 23 and b) 23- 24? Councillor Hill thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: During 2022/23, the Council received a total of 1,094 applications for homeless assistance. This was a reduction from the previous year of 4%, where 1,141 applications for assistance were recorded. For 2023/24, the figure increased by 6% with 1,161 applications for assistance being recorded. The Scottish Government has advised that the annual homeless statistics report will be published at the end of September 2024 which will allow a benchmarking exercise with comparisons at a national level to be carried out by officers. As a supplementary question, Councillor Cullinane asked if the data will be considered when looking at the SHIP? Councillor Hill responded and advised that when the statistics come forward, he would be more than happy to arrange meetings to look at that in detail. In terms of the most recent survey results however, the Council was showing as an amber status rather than red, but things may change depending on the findings of the report at the end of the month. (5) a question by Councillor Gallacher to the Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and the Islands in the following terms: To ask the member how many housing applications are discovered to contain fraudulent information from the applicant over the course of an average year? Councillor Hill thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: In recent years there have been no tenancy fraud incidents identified for housing register applications or in relation to any tenancy rights (e.g. succession, assignation, mutual exchange, joint tenancy, sub-let).
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As a supplementary question, Councillor Gallacher asked if a person was retrospectively found to have falsely acquired a council house, what if any action do the council take at that point. Councillor Hill responded and advised that if Councillor Gallacher has a particular case in mind then he would urge him to come forward with that information so that it can be investigated. (6) a question by Councillor Murdoch to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: I asked the following question during the December 2023 Full Council Meeting: “During a Glasgow City Council, Full Council Meeting held on 9 December 2022, the following motion, as adjusted, was unanimously approved: “Council notes the campaign launched by Radio Clyde calling for lighting to be installed along the main routes of Glasgow’s Parks: notes that this renewed call follows on from experiences during COP26: and notes that this campaign is supported by a wide range of individuals and organisations. Women’s safety requires a multi-agency response, which includes cultural and societal change.” It also states, “Council therefore resolves to instruct officers to prepare a paper to the relevant City Policy Committee within 2 committee cycles on the necessary infrastructure to provide sensitive lighting solutions in our parks, including the wider implications: and specifically, the equality and climate impacts of such an undertaking to ensure that the widest range of health, social and climate benefits can be realised.” My concern is for everyone’s safety using the unlit footpaths within North Ayrshire. Does North Ayrshire Council have any plans to light up the many footpaths across North Ayrshire that are not currently covered by street lighting of any kind? Has North Ayrshire Council’s position changed since I asked this question? Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: The position has not changed in that there is no budget available to invest in the introduction of lighting to currently unlit areas.
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As a supplementary question, Councillor Murdoch asked if the Cabinet Member would support three proposed projects in Ward One, the North Coast that could benefit from the installation of solar powered lighting. One in Skelmorlie leading from the Community Centre, one in Largs between Anthony Road and Largs Yacht haven, one in the Glen in West Kilbride and any others across North Ayrshire that wish to explore funding opportunities outside North Ayrshire Council’s general budget. The Monitoring Officer provided confirmation as to the competence of supplementary question and advised that Councillor Murdoch was asking Councillor Gurney to give assurance of a project being undertaken without budgetary implications from the General Fund being available so on that basis Councillor Gurney was not in a position to confirm if any of these projects can be taken forward. Councillor Gurney responded and advised that he looks forward to receiving information on the proposals and their funding mechanisms from Councillor Murdoch. (7) a question by Councillor Foster to the Depute Leader of the Council in the following terms: Given the division that disinformation can create within communities, witnessed most recently with far-right riots, what would the Depute Leader of the Council’s response be if a member of his group was sharing fake front pages and spreading misinformation online in the past few weeks? Councillor Macaulay thanked the Member for his question and advised it was important to differentiate between someone deliberately spreading what they know to be false and someone falling foul of misinformation themselves which we know was a real challenge for anyone on a social media platform. Councillor Macaulay advised he did not know what Councillor Foster was referring to but should not attempt to link a potential spoof front page to some of the deeply disturbing riots witnessed throughout the summer. (8) a question by Councillor Todd Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: To ask the cabinet portfolio holder for an update on proposals from West of Scotland Resilience Partnership in relation to fires at battery energy storage systems? Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: Following the issue of the number of BESS sites which were being constructed in our area, the Ayrshire Local Resilience Partnership (Category 1 and 2 responders throughout Ayrshire) requested that this be included for discussion at the regional WoSRRP meeting in June 2023 which is attended by all Category 1 and Category 2 responders across the West of Scotland.
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It was agreed at that meeting that a subgroup, led by Scottish Fire and Rescue would meet to develop a MAIRG document (Multi Agency Incident Response Guide) which could be used across the region. The document is generic and covers the response to a variety of situations involving Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. It does not detail firefighting tactics and techniques but details the steps taken to protect other first responders, persons in close proximity and others affected by the incident. It provides Key Safety Actions including those for the Local Authority. In addition to the plan detailed above, at the Ayrshire LRP meeting on 3 September it was agreed that there should be a Short Life Working Group established to look at these sites individually across Ayrshire and determine if there are any arrangements which are required for any individual sites. It should be noted however, that Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is continually developing and reviewing its policies and procedures for all incident types and the increased use of energy storage sites is included in this. Currently, they collect operational intelligence for BESS sites, perform familiarisation visits with operational staff, have a group of senior officers trained in dealing with hazardous materials and liaise with site developers as they develop their sites. This is a relatively new type of technology and the SFRS is continually analysing new information as it emerges and working with partners to create response plans and MAIRGs when required. It is anticipated that the response to and technology for incidents at these locations will continue to evolve over the coming years (provided by Ian McMeekin, SFRS). Councillor Larsen also advised that officers will be attending a lithium battery incident response event arranged by the Scottish Government Civil Contingencies Liaison Division at the beginning of November 2024 to ensure we are all well informed and up to date on advice. As a supplementary question, Councillor Ferguson asked that once officers have been to the training can they undertake a member’s briefing so all members are aware of the challenges and risks that are posed and how we can better inform our communities of these types of developments moving forward. Councillor Larsen responded and advised that an elected member briefing on the Kilwinning Fire will be set up in the near future, which will give officers the opportunity to share the outcome of the debrief and allow elected members to ask questions. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will also be in attendance. (9) a question by Councillor Murdoch to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: How much Ayrshire Growth Deal finance has been used, how many of the proposed Ayrshire Growth Deal projects have been started and how many have been completed?
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Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: £11.278m AGD funding on projects led by North Ayrshire Council has been utilised from 2019/20 to August 2024 across all projects. Five of the nine projects are in delivery and no projects have been completed to date. The five projects in delivery are I3 DPMC, I3 Flexible Space, Community Wealth Building, Working for a Healthy Economy and the Ayrshire Skills & Investment Fund. Two projects are projected to complete within 2024.25. These are Community Wealth Building and I3 Flexible Space Phase 1. As a supplementary question, Councillor Murdoch asked, taking into consideration the many price increases and changes within the economic climate, how many of the original proposals can be completed within the original funding allocated. Councillor Gurney responded and advised that it was a mistake not to factor in inflation, to cope with that we have been continually reallocating and repurposing some of the projects to ensure we get best value for money for the funds we have available. Councillor Gurney advised he is happy to speak with Councillor Murdoch to go through the changes. (10) a question by Councillor Sweeney to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: The Cabinet Member will know that organising a community event takes months of planning, including financial planning. Do they therefore believe it was acceptable that it took over four months for the Council to write to community groups who organise Christmas light switch-on’s advising them of the budget decision taken in February, leaving the groups with a massive gap in their financial plans four months out from the Christmas light events? Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: Elected Members agreed at the budget setting meeting on 28 February 2024 to cease funding the installation of Festive Lights. A cross service officer working group (consisting of Streetscene, Roads Lighting, Building Services and Connected Communities) was set up to develop a list of Frequently Asked Questions to be issued to Community Groups. This guidance covered installation & maintenance, storage, grant funding opportunities, permissions, licences, permits, testing and energy costs. The guidance was held due to the Pre-Election Period and issued thereafter. In response to a question to Council on 26 June 2024, it was advised guidance would be issued week commencing 8 July 2024 and it duly was.
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A meeting was held with Community Groups on 5 August 2024. Each Group has been informed of the installation costs for their respective displays. It has also been agreed with Groups that where the Council are chosen installer, we would accept payment for the works up to 31 March 2025. This gives the groups 8 months from the meeting to raise the funds and 9 months from the date the guidance was issued. As a supplementary question, Councillor Sweeney referred to communication and the timing, and that the pre-election period only lasts a few weeks. What steps have been taken to prevent recurrence and improve communication with community groups especially when we consider another issue with regards to lack of communication with school librarians and parent councils. Councillor Gurney responded and advised that we endeavor to engage with all citizens and ensure they are aware of council decisions. We endeavor to do our best with communications and where any elected member feels we have failed then approach the service and we can try to do better next time. (11) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: FOI EIR disclosure 101004640824, reported that the number of Grounds Maintenance Staff employed in Summer in the North Coast declined from 20 persons in 2022 to 17 in 2023 to 11 in 2024. A decline over two years of some 45% despite the best efforts of Staff the standard of Grounds Maintenance has declined to such an extent that local Businesses, Council Taxpayers and visiting Tourists are expressing discontent. What plans will be made to reverse this situation for the 2025 Tourist season? Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: The Council continues to experience significant financial challenges. In addressing these challenges services, including Streetscene, have absorbed significant inflationary pressures within its budget. To deliver a balanced budget, it has been necessary to reduce the numbers of seasonal employees recruited for the summer months and offset against non-controllable winter fuel inflationary pressures for essential equipment and materials such as machinery and tools. This has affected all areas, not just the North Coast. Streetscene services will continue to be delivered within resources available. For clarity, summer recruitment is down from 20 to 12 for the North Coast. As a supplementary question, Councillor Marshall asked if we are going to continue with so few staff on the ground, if Council taxpayers are entitled to some reduction for their reduction in service.
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Councillor Gurney responded and advised whilst the numbers have gone down we are trying some innovative measures to ensure we can do the best for Streetscene, for example we are using the intermediate labour market program, which allows us to take on staff and train them thus providing them with helpful training for their careers. In terms of the service, it was given in terms of the budget that was provided and if members wish to make budgetary changes then the budget process was coming up soon. (12) a question by Councillor McDonald to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: Without a proper consultation period with the trade unions, the Council proposed to move 648 members of staff from weekly to fortnightly pay with six weeks’ notice. Changing payroll can have many implications for people’s finances, particularly those on lower incomes whose entitlement to Universal Credit could be affected (the Council offering staff a “pay advance” loan is an acknowledgment of this potential impact). I understand that the decision has been paused, for now, but has the Cabinet Member reflected on why they came close to creating a dispute with the trade unions on this and, if they still intend on pushing these payroll changes through, what will they do differently? Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: “As with all employee-related matters we work closely with our Trade Union Colleagues. An initial confidential meeting was held with them to discuss the proposal, the approach and obtain feedback. Unfortunately, the information provided was shared resulting in contact from a number of employees. Following a discussion with Trade Unions the communication to impacted employees was issued earlier than planned. We have agreed to pause this activity while discussions continue with Trade Unions. We are very mindful of the impact of our workforce transferring to weekly pay and a range of supports are available to those impacted.” As a supplementary question, Councillor McDonald asked if the Cabinet member will commit to a proper consultation with unions to allow them to undertake their duties align with their own principles of member democracy and instruct officers to sit down with unions and agree that timescales as soon as possible. Councillor Larsen responded and advised that discussions are ongoing with Trade Unions and it therefore would not be appropriate to comment on that at this time. (13) a question by Councillor Todd Ferguson to the Cabinet Member for Education in the following terms: To ask the cabinet portfolio holder for an update on mobile phone usage at primary and secondary schools?
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Councillor Macaulay thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: Through creating and promoting their positive relationships’ policies and approaches, schools can support the appropriate use of mobile phones within a school context and setting. There is a Standard Circular (M15) for schools to use and refer to when creating their own guidance and which supports appropriate usage in schools. This policy will be reviewed and refreshed in session 2024-25 by school senior leaders and central senior managers in light of the recent publication by Scottish Government Mobile phones: guidance for Scotland's schools - gov.scot (www.gov.scot). As a supplementary question, Councillor Todd Ferguson asked if any of our schools have chosen to utilise these new powers to ban mobile phones. Councillor Macaulay responded and advised that it was important that we equip pupils with the skills for the modern age but also balance that out to ensure that pupils are focused in the classroom and learn in the best environment as possible. Headteachers make decision that are right for their school, if they believe a ban was appropriate then they would be supported in that decision. Councillor Macaulay undertook to get the details of each school and their individual policy to Councillor Todd Ferguson. (14) a question by Councillor Montgomerie to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: How many parking fines has the Council issued for illegal parking at the Chapelwell Street Car Park in Saltcoats since the introduction of traffic wardens, what is the total income from these fines and how has the money been used? Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: 403 PCNs have been issued at the Chapelwell Street Car Park. PCNs are issued at £100, but most are paid at £50. At £50, the income from these PCNs is £20,150. This money is used to support the Council’s budget. As a supplementary question, Councillor Montgomerie asked if the signage at this car par could be made clearer. Councillor Gurney responded and advised the signage and road markings have already been updated and made clearer at this car park.
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(15) a question by Councillor Marshall to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: How many full-time equivalent members of staff (excluding those employed by the Health and Social Care Partnership) were employed by the Council and what was the associated total salary costs at the commencement of each of the previous three Financial years? Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: Full details of full-time equivalent staff numbers and associated staff costs have been provided covering the last 3 financial years. (16) a question by Councillor Cullinane to the Leader of the Council in the following terms: NHS Ayrshire and Arran’s structural budget deficit has been growing year on year for a considerable amount of time. This year’s £24million of cuts is an unprecedented sum, but the board approved with the budget with a gap of £26million. It’s now been reported in the press that the board is overspending by around £5million per month. As a member of the health board, can the Leader outline what measures are being considered by the board to manage the significant risk the boards financial deficit presents to the delivery of local services throughout North Ayrshire? Councillor Cullinane advised that in the absence of the Leader of the Council he would be happy to accept a written answer. (17) a question by Councillor McLean to the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy in the following terms: What impact will the removal of the Winter Fuel Payments likely have on pensioners in North Ayrshire, including access to the Energy Smart Scheme and associated grants? Councillor Gurney thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: The Council is not able to calculate the impact of the changes to the eligibility criteria for the Winter Fuel Allowance. However I can advise that North Ayrshire Council’s Energy Smart support will continue to be available to those on low incomes, the eligibility criteria is as follows: • Emergency response grant – household income of less than £27,710 for those not in receipt of benefits, or for those in receipt of benefits who are on prepayment meter and at risk of disconnection. (£342k remaining in this fund.)
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• Energy efficiency measures installations (insulation, temperature controls, LED bulbs, draft proofing, electric storage heating) – gross household income less than £43,662. As a supplementary question, Councillor McLean asked if there was a need to review the eligibility criteria for the Winter Fuel Allowance considering it ties predominately to people who have prepayment meters and there will be a significant number of pensioners who are not on prepayment meters and will be worse off over the winter. Councillor Gurney responded and advised the figure was chosen to reflect the average income in Scotland and we continually check that so the last figure we have was for 2022 and it has not yet been updated for 2023. This will be modified as the new figures come in. In terms of pensioners specifically, most pensioners on the national state income will come in less than that and will therefore be available. (18) a question by Councillor Montgomerie to the Cabinet Member for Finance in the following terms: Has the Council received any insurance money from the tragic fire that happened in the Saltcoats shore front toilets in November 2021 and if so how much was it? Councillor Larsen thanked the Member for his question and responded in the following terms: The council has not received any monies from the Council’s insurer in respect of this property. The Council is self-insured up to the value of £250,000 for any property loss from 1st April 2019. As a supplementary question, Councillor Montgomerie asked if the Cabinet Member would consider reducing the Council’s self-insurance sum in future incase any similar damage to other council properties. Councillor Larsen responded and advised that she will take this back to officers for discussion. In terms of Standing Order 6.8, the Provost agreed that the meeting be adjourned at 3.55 p.m. for a short comfort break to consider the motion, reconvening at 4.10 p.m. with the same Members and officers present and in attendance with the exception of Councillor Gallacher.
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16. Motions In terms of Standing Order 15, submitted: (1) a motion by Councillor Cullinane, seconded by Councillor McDonald, in the following terms: "Council notes that 625 children, from 587 families, claimed a £50 clothing grant for eligible children in Early Years for 2024/25 at a total cost of £31,250 plus administration costs leaving a balance of £78,750 in the Council’s Cost of Living support fund. Following the success of this year’s grant scheme, Council agrees to continue the £50 clothing grant to all eligible* 3- and 4-year-olds in Early Years during the 2025/26 school year, funded through a proportion of the £78,750 residual balance unallocated in the Council’s Cost of Living support fund.” There being no amendment, the motion was declared carried. Councillor Murdoch left the meeting at this point. (2) a motion by Councillor Foster, seconded by Councillor McDonald, in the following terms: “In line with our commitment to The Promise, Council agrees that an EIA be undertaken with immediate effect to take forward ending the practice of excluding Care Experienced children from school and subject to the findings of that assessment and relevant considerations implement the necessary amendments to policies.” As an amendment, Councillor Macaulay, seconded by Councillor Larsen moved the following "Council notes the progress being made to reduce exclusions and end the practice of informal and formal exclusions. Council reaffirms our commitment to reducing the causes of exclusions, particularly for care experienced young people. Council also notes the current challenges across education establishments and remains committed to working with the whole school community, including education staff, parents (and carers), pupils and trade union colleagues to continue our shared aim of keeping the promise. Members asked questions of clarification of the movers of the motion and the amendment. The Monitoring Officer provided further clarification and confirmed the motion was asking for an EIA to be undertaken and subject to the findings of that assessment and relevant considerations implement the necessary amendments to policies. If the findings of the assessment display there was an adverse impact in relation to any relevant
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groups, that would then not mean we would be able to implement the policy and it would have to come back for consideration by members. The Monitoring Officer advised the motion was competent in relation to the fact that the caveat was there. If members chose to take it forward then we would assess where we get to as a result of that, further advice would be given and the appropriate process would be taken forward to ensure that the rights and interests of everyone involved were properly taken into consideration. Following discussion, the Council agreed as follows: (a) not to proceed with the motion or amendment at this time ; and (b) to undertake an EIA and bring the report to a future meeting of Council for consideration; and (c) review the position on school exclusions once the findings of the EIA are available. Councillor Montgomerie left the meeting at this point. (3) a motion by Councillor Reid, seconded by Councillor Cullinane, in the following terms: “We call on the North Ayrshire Council to renew its commitment to Fairtrade as set out in the motion already agreed by North Ayrshire Council in June 2004 and updated on zone renewal every three years. That this Council agrees to (a) resolve to support the aims of Fairtrade and to lend assistance to local Zone Fairtrade Steering Groups in promoting and encouraging Fairtrade initiatives within North Ayrshire; (b) use the option of Fairtrade products when catering for Council meetings and functions, and encourage the use of Fairtrade products amongst Council Services and staff as appropriate; (c) promote the aims of the Fairtrade movement through the Council's website and in appropriate Council publications; and (d) encourage Council Services and staff to lend what assistance they can to local Fairtrade Steering Groups in promoting and encouraging Fairtrade within North Ayrshire.” Note: Local Authority Fair Trade status for North Ayrshire was renewed earlier in 2024 by the North Ayrshire Fairtrade Group. As an amendment, Councillor McLean, seconded by Councillor Inglis moved to not agree or disagree to the aims of the motion and to have the impact and practicality of the substance of the motion brought forward in a report and bring it to the PAP - specifically considering any procurement spending implications and environmental impact given much fair trade produce comes from abroad, and any community wealth building implications. There followed debate and summing up.
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On a division and a roll call vote, there voted for the amendment, Councillors S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Inglis, Marshall, McLean (5) and for the motion, Councillors Bell, Collier, Cullinane, Currie, Dickson, Foster, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McClung, McDonald, McLaughlan, McTiernan, D. Reid, D.L. Reid, Robertson and Sweeney (19) and the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed to (a) resolve to support the aims of Fairtrade and to lend assistance to local Zone Fairtrade Steering Groups in promoting and encouraging Fairtrade initiatives within North Ayrshire; (b) use the option of Fairtrade products when catering for Council meetings and functions, and encourage the use of Fairtrade products amongst Council Services and staff as appropriate; (c) promote the aims of the Fairtrade movement through the Council's website and in appropriate Council publications; and (d) encourage Council Services and staff to lend what assistance they can to local Fairtrade Steering Groups in promoting and encouraging Fairtrade within North Ayrshire. (4) a motion by Councillor Inglis, seconded by Councillor T Ferguson, in the following terms: “Council Recognises that: • Winter Fuel Payments have been a source of help that has allowed our constituents to pay for rising heating bills and live their lives without having to worry about having the heating on during the winter months. • Without these payments many people in North Ayrshire will suffer a very harsh winter without heating which could potentially lead to ill health or death within our communities. Council requests that: • The Chief Executive of North Ayrshire Council write to the UK and Scottish Governments 1. expressing this councils concern about the decision by both to cut winter fuel payments to many of our constituents and the effects this will have on them 2. urges the UK and Scottish Govt to reconsider their decision.” As an amendment, Councillor McClung, seconded by Councillor Johnson moved as follows: Council Recognises that: • Winter Fuel Payments have been a source of help that has allowed our constituents to pay for rising heating bills and live their lives without having to worry about having the heating on during the winter months. • Without these payments many people in North Ayrshire will suffer a very harsh winter without heating which could potentially lead to ill health or death within our communities.
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Council requests that: • The Chief Executive of North Ayrshire Council write to the UK Government 1. expressing this council's concern about the decision to cut winter fuel payments to many of our constituents, and the consequent effects this will have on them. 2. urges the UK Government to reconsider its decision. Members asked questions of clarification of the movers of the amendments. There followed debate and summing up. On a division and a roll call vote, there voted for the amendment, Councillors Collier, Dickson, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McClung, McTiernan, Robertson (10) and for the motion, Councillors Bell, Cullinane, Currie, S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Foster, Inglis, Marshall, McDonald, McLean, McLaughlan, D. Reid, D.L. Reid, Sweeney (14) and the motion was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed as follows: “Council Recognises that: • Winter Fuel Payments have been a source of help that has allowed our constituents to pay for rising heating bills and live their lives without having to worry about having the heating on during the winter months. • Without these payments many people in North Ayrshire will suffer a very harsh winter without heating which could potentially lead to ill health or death within our communities. Council requests that: • The Chief Executive of North Ayrshire Council write to the UK and Scottish Governments 1. expressing this councils concern about the decision by both to cut winter fuel payments to many of our constituents and the effects this will have on them 2. urges the UK and Scottish Govt to reconsider their decision.” Councillors Cullinane and Currie left the meeting at this point. (5) a motion by Councillor McLean, seconded by Councillor T Ferguson, in the following terms: “This motion seeks to ensure that North Ayrshire continues to deliver high-quality services while being responsive to the concerns of the community.
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In light of recent considerations and concerns raised by constituents and stakeholders regarding the guidance and materials provided by LGBT Youth Scotland, this Council resolves to: - Cease all future funding to LGBT Youth Scotland effective immediately. - Discontinue the use of LGBT Youth Scotland’s recommendations, advisory manuals, and materials within all youth services and educational facilities in North Ayrshire. - Undertake a comprehensive review of alternative providers and resources following appropriate procurement processes to ensure that youth services and educational settings continue to support diversity and inclusivity in a way that aligns with the needs and values of the community. - Engage with local youth groups, educational professionals, and community leaders to develop a framework for inclusivity that ensures all young people are supported without relying on external organisations whose materials may no longer reflect the Council’s priorities. Councillors Robertson and Larsen left the meeting at this point. As an amendment, Councillor Macaulay, seconded by Councillor Collier moved the direct negative. Members asked questions of clarification of the movers of the amendments. There followed summing up. Councillors Robertson and Larsen rejoined the meeting at this point. On a division and a roll call vote, there voted for the amendment, Councillors Bell, Collier, Dickson, Foster, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Macaulay, McClung, McDonald, McLaughlan, McTiernan, D. Reid, Sweeney (14) and for the motion Councillors S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Inglis, Marshall, McLean and D.L. Reid (6) and the amendment was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed not to proceed with the terms of the motion. Councillor Sweeney left the meeting at this point. (6) a motion by Councillor McLean, seconded by Councillor Inglis, in the following terms: “The Council acknowledges the emerging evidence from Universal Basic Income (UBI) and cash transfer programs, including the recent OpenResearch pilot study. While these
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initiatives have shown some immediate benefits, they have also revealed significant drawbacks. Council is asked to note the findings from: the OpenResearch UBI pilot and other similar programs, which revealed that although UBI can provide short-term relief, it does not necessarily deliver sustained benefits. Positive outcomes such as reduced stress and improved subjective health faded over time, and the programme saw a slight decline in employment rates, indicating that UBI may unintentionally discourage workforce participation and Other studies of cash transfer programs have highlighted the risk of dependency and their failure to foster long-term economic independence, further reinforcing the need to explore alternatives to direct cash transfers and services in kind. This motion recognizes the limitations and potential negative impacts of UBI and cash transfer programs. It calls for a comprehensive review of how existing welfare services and service in kind programmes delivered by the Council may contribute to poverty traps, emphasizing the need to reform systems to promote financial independence rather than expanding cash transfer programs that may not offer sustainable solutions. I therefore move that this Council commits to reviewing how our welfare and support programs may contribute to poverty traps, without advocating for the expansion of cash transfer models, which may not offer long-term solutions. The programme for review should involve: 1. Review of Anti-Poverty Programs and the Welfare Cliff. The Council will initiate a thorough review of current anti-poverty programmes to evaluate how they may contribute to the "welfare cliff," a situation where individuals lose significant benefits if their income rises slightly. This creates a disincentive for individuals to pursue higher-paying jobs or career advancement. Rather than expanding cash transfer programs, this review will focus on how existing services can be restructured to avoid such disincentives and provide more effective pathways to self-sufficiency. 2. Cross-Departmental Coordination: The Council will through the Poverty and Cost of Living Board examine how services across departments—including housing, employability, and welfare—can collaborate to reduce the welfare cliff and avoid creating barriers to upward mobility. The Board will explore reforms to existing support systems, ensuring that they promote financial independence without creating dependency or penalizing individuals for improving their income.
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3. Consultation and Reporting: The Council will engage with service users and community groups to gather insights on how current programs can be adapted to avoid income cliffs and better support long-term economic independence. A report will be submitted to the PAP as soon as reasonably practicable with initial findings and any recommendations for measures within the Council’s remit that can be brought forward to address poverty traps and encourage economic self-sufficiency, without expanding cash transfer schemes. This can be a longer-term program of papers which can serially come to the PAP over 2025.” As an amendment, Councillor Johnson, seconded by Councillor Robertson moved the direct negative. There followed debate and summing up. On a division and a roll call vote, there voted for the amendment, Councillors Bell, Collier, Dickson, Foster, Gurney, Hill, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McClung, McDonald, McLaughlan, McTiernan, D. Reid, D.L. Reid, Robertson (16) and for the motion Councillors S. Ferguson, T. Ferguson, Inglis, Marshall and McLean (5) and the amendment was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed not to proceed with the terms of the motion. The meeting ended at 5.30 p.m.
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North Ayrshire Council 9 October 2024 At a Special Meeting of North Ayrshire Council at 2.00 p.m. involving a combination of participation by remote electronic means and physical attendance within the Council Chambers, Irvine. Present (Physical Participation) Nairn Angus-McDonald, John Bell, Marie Burns, Eleanor Collier, Joe Cullinane, Charles Currie, Stewart Ferguson, Robert Foster, Tony Gurney, Mary Hume, Cameron Inglis, Margaret Johnson, Christina Larsen, Louise McLaughlan, Shaun Macaulay, Davina McTiernan, Donald L. Reid, Ronnie Stalker and John Sweeney. Present (Remote Electronic Participation) Amanda Kerr, Matthew McLean, Jim Montgomerie, Ian Murdoch and Chloé Robertson. In Attendance C. Hatton, Chief Executive; D. Hammond, Executive Director (Communities and Housing); S. Anson, Executive Director (Education), R. McCutcheon, Executive Director (Place); K. Logan Head of Service (Health and Community Care) (Health and Social Care Partnership); M. Boyd, Head of Service (Finance); F. Walker, Head of Service (People and ICT); A. Craig, Head of Service (Democratic), R. Lynch, Senior Manager (Legal Services); M. McColm, Senior Manager (Communications), S. Wilson, Committee Services Officer, and H. Young, Senior Committee Services Officer (Democratic) (Corporate Services). Chair Depute Provost Sweeney in the Chair. Apologies Anthea Dickson, Todd Ferguson, Scott Gallacher, Alan Hill, Tom Marshall, Jean McClung, Donald Reid and Angela Stephen. 1. Depute Provost's Remarks The Depute Provost welcomed those present to the meeting and dealt with preliminary matters, including intimation that the meeting, which was taking place on a hybrid basis, was being recorded. 2. Apologies The Depute Provost invited intimation of apologies for absence, which were recorded.
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3. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of interest in terms of Standing Order 11 and Section 5 of the Councillors' Code of Conduct. There were no declarations of the Party Whip. 4. Medium-Term Financial Outlook 2025/26 to 2027/28 Submitted a report by the Head of Service (Finance) on the financial challenges facing the Council, the likely financial position of the Council’s General Fund in the medium- term, and the programme of engagement with communities, feedback from which will help inform the development of budget proposals for consideration at the Council’s Budget meeting in February 2025. Members asked questions, and received clarification, on the following: • programme of proposals for engagement and consultation with communities who are not part of our formal stakeholders groups; and • face to face engagement with communities. At the invitation of the Depute Provost, the Chief Executive provided clarification and confirmed that no decisions would be made today, and that further discussions would take place after the programme of engagement with communities. The engagement with communities would be extensive, taking place early to ensure the maximum possible responses along with engagement and formal consultation on certain areas to comply with the legal framework. Councillor Larsen, seconded by Councillor Burns, moved the report with the following amendment: “Council instructs the Chief Executive to write to the Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Finance and UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, setting out the Council’s budget position and asking that funding for Local Government be given a high priority in the budget decisions, to be taken by both Governments later this year”. As an amendment, Councillor Inglis, seconded by Councillor McLean, moved; “that Council notes the Officer report and the financial challenges facing the Council and agrees to set up a member/officer budget working group to allow for open discussion, consideration of consultation responses and the potential for political consensus on budget proposals for our communities.”
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As a further amendment, Councillor Cullinane, seconded by Councillor Bell, moved an amendment to the report, as follows: “Council: • Wishes to express its frustration that elected members have been called to a special meeting to “note” a report. • Believes that opposition members being asked to “note” a report which outlines a range of potential cuts that our communities will be consulted on is an attempt by the administration to create collective responsibility for decisions that they have given approval for (i.e the decision to consult on these cuts). • Notes that over £12.6million of money from reserves (including monies associated with the PPP Service Concession), the Strathclyde Pension Fund payment holiday and one-off savings have been used by the administration to balance the last two budgets but that the promised “transformation” has not been delivered, putting further pressure on the Council’s finances. • Expresses its disappointment that having used £12.6million of non-recurring funding to balance the budget, decisions that this Council has previously rejected (town centre parking charges, a £50 charge for brown bin collections, the closure of Arran Outdoor Centre and cuts to teacher numbers to name a few) have returned as part of this report. • Condemns the administration’s management of the Council’s finances and wishes to make it clear that the proposals outlined in Appendix 1 are owned by the administration not opposition members who were only advised of them a matter of days before the papers were published.” In terms of Standing Order 6.8, the Depute Provost agreed that the meeting be adjourned at 2.35 p.m. for a short comfort break to consider the motion and amendments, reconvening at 2.45 p.m. with the same Members and officers present and in attendance. There followed debate. On a point of order in terms of Standing Order 17.6, Councillor Burns sought to correct a statement made in the course of debate regarding raising Council Tax. Councillor Foster confirmed that the source of the information was taken from the Council’s social media platform. On a further point of order in terms of Standing Order 17.6, Councillor Cullinane corrected an assertion made in the course of debate, by clarifying that he did not complain about attending the Special meeting but about the waste of Council finances over the last 2 years.
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On a further point of order in terms of Standing Order 17.6, Councillor Foster sought clarification on a statement made in the course of debate regarding leaks to the press on council decisions being one of the reasons for calling the meeting. The Monitoring Officer provided clarification and confirmed that the Special meeting was called to deal with the consultation and engagement process. On a further point of order in terms of Standing Order 17.6, Councillor Gurney corrected an assertion made in the course of debate, by clarifying that he did not make a qualitive judgement. There followed summing up. The Monitoring Officer provided further clarification on procedure and confirmed in terms of Standing Order 17.8 that the movers of the motion and amendments summed up with their right of reply prior to the vote being taken. On a division and roll call vote, there voted for the first amendment, Councillors S. Ferguson, Inglis, McLean, D.L. Reid, Stalker (5) and for the substantive motion, Councillors Burns, Collier, Gurney, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McTiernan, and Robertson (8) Councillors Angus-McDonald, Bell, Cullinane, Currie, Foster, Hume, Kerr, McLaughlan, Montgomerie, Murdoch, and Sweeney abstaining, and the first amendment fell. On a further division and a roll call vote, there voted for the second amendment, Councillors Angus-McDonald, Bell, Cullinane, Currie, S. Ferguson, Foster, Hume, Inglis, Kerr, McLean, McLaughlan, Montgomerie, Stalker, Sweeney (14) and for the substantive motion, Councillors Burns, Collier, Gurney, Johnson, Larsen, Macaulay, McTiernan and Robertson (8) Councillors Murdoch and D.L. Reid abstaining, and the second amendment was declared carried. Accordingly, the Council agreed to: (i) note the Medium-Term Financial Outlook 2025/26 to 2027/28; (ii) note the scale of the financial challenges facing the Council over this period; (iii) note the range of areas included within a planned programme of engagement with communities; (iv) consider feedback from communities following the period of engagement, to bring forward proposals to set a balanced budget for 2025/26 and beyond; (v) express its frustration that elected members have been called to a special meeting to “note” a report;
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(vi) record the belief that opposition members being asked to “note” a report which outlines a range of potential cuts that our communities will be consulted on is an attempt by the administration to create collective responsibility for decisions that they have given approval for (i.e the decision to consult on these cuts); (vii) note that over £12.6million of money from reserves (including monies associated with the PPP Service Concession), the Strathclyde Pension Fund payment holiday and one-off savings have been used by the administration to balance the last two budgets but that the promised “transformation” has not been delivered, putting further pressure on the Council’s finances; (viii) express disappointment that having used £12.6million of non-recurring funding to balance the budget, decisions that this Council has previously rejected (town centre parking charges, a £50 charge for brown bin collections, the closure of Arran Outdoor Centre and cuts to teacher numbers to name a few) have returned as part of this report; (ix) condemn the administration’s management of the Council’s finances and to make it clear that the proposals outlined in Appendix 1 are owned by the administration not opposition members who were only advised of them a matter of days before the papers were published. The meeting ended at 3.20 p.m.