Decision details
The Future of Members IT
PDF 20 KBDecision Maker: Cabinet
Decision status: Recommendations approved
Is Key decision?: Yes
Is subject to call in?: Yes
Decision:
Agreed to withdraw Council-funded IT equipment for Members, with continued support only being provided in exceptional circumstances; approved the purchase of iPads from Members allowances; agreed to withdraw, where possible, printed agendas and reports for Members; supported the principle that all Members should use non-HDC (but HDC approved) email addresses for Council business; agreed to withdraw HDC funded broadband connections; agreed that, with effect from 1st May 2014, it be compulsory for newly elected Members to participate in the iPad scheme. It was also RECOMMENDED to Council that the Members’ IT and telephone support guidelines in the Council’s Constitution be varied accordingly to reflect the above.
Reasons for the decision:
As part of a review of the current IT provision for Members.
Publication date: 10/04/2014
Date of decision: 10/04/2014
Decided at meeting: 10/04/2014 - Cabinet
Effective from: 19/04/2014
This decision has been called in by:
- Councillor Michael Frederick Shellens who writes This decision will have a negative impact on the willingness of members of the public to stand for election to the detriment of local democracy and could also harm the eyesight of councillors. it would also dramtically increase the costs of printing at home. This decision should be subject to scrutiny by the whole council and not just made by a coterie of councillors from a single party."
- Ms C Deller who writes Submitted on behalf of Councillor K J Churchill. A decision which has far reaching implications for Councillor communications has not been given sufficiently detailed consideration and has been taken contrary to the normal decision making requirements."
- Mrs Amanda Jerrom who writes Submitted on behalf of Councillor Ste Greenall - There has not been enough time to consider this item. On reflection the size of print on the iPad will be smaller than on a paper version. I have concerns over the cost burden it will place on councillors now and in the future. Having a hard copy is more useful."
Accompanying Documents: