Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Director of Corporate Affairs & Business Transformation providing Members with an update on performance against the Corporate Plan and local service targets for 2018/19.

The Committee had before it, and NOTED a report * from the Director of Corporate Affairs & Business Transformation providing it with an update on performance against the Corporate Plan and local service targets for 2018-2019 as well as providing an update on the key business risks.

Discussion took place regarding:

·         It was explained that the recycling rate for the whole of England for 2017-18 was 44.8% (2016-17 45.1%). The Council’s rates were 51.9% for 2017-18 (2016-17 53.3%) so exhibiting the same pattern (i.e. 2017-18 being lower than 2016-17) but with much better results.

·         The risks in connection with the 3 Rivers Development Company were identified within the report as being ‘high’. It was explained that the company had been included in the accounts for the first time last year and that there was a need to be as transparent as possible with regard to technical disclosure within the public accounts, it was possible therefore that officers were being over cautious with regard to scoring risks in this area. It was further explained that, in line with CIPFA guidance, the services of an independent technical expert had been engaged who was consulted on a regular basis to provide advice. Advice was also regularly sought from the Group Manager for Legal Services and Monitoring Officer as well as the Group Manager for Performance, Governance and Data Security. Legislation, particularly with regard to procurement arrangements was strictly adhered to. Internal audit had also recently undertaken a review of the company’s governance arrangements.

·         The Chairman commented that there were still some review notes missing within the risk report and that some of the notes that were there contained comments that were not very helpful. He asked that this be conveyed back to Service Managers.

Note: * Report previously circulated; copy attached to the signed minutes