Issue - meetings

The Overview and Scrutiny Panel is invited to comment on officer recommendations contained within the attached Cabinet report.

Executive Councillor: Tom Sanderson.

By means of a report by the Head of Planning, Infrastructure & Public Protection (a copy of which was appended in the Minute Book), the Discretionary Fees - Planning & Public Protection Report was presented to the Panel.

Councillor Martin requested confirmation as to when this was first discussed. The Panel heard that an exact date could not be provided but matters like this are discussed regularly with the Officers. Councillor Martin continued, referencing the Budget and Policy Framework procedure rules and claimed the procedure had not been followed in this instance, quoting Part 2.1, part A of the Constitution. He reiterated that the Panel should have notified as soon as it came up. It was confirmed to the Panel that the notices had been presented correctly and the procedure has been followed. Councillor Martin confirmed that he fully supports the proposal of charging additional fees but would like to make the Recommendation that this not be delegated to Officers but charges to  remain a decision of Full Council. The Panel heard that the Officers have adopted a new system 2 months ago which highlighted the upturn in Section 106 agreements which must be signed. This must reach the July Council otherwise they will be doing this at cost to the Council. The Panel were informed this had been brought to them in June to allow them time to scrutinise and be fully informed before Full Council in July. The Panel were also asked to consider agility when debating the proffered Recommendation suggested. The report is based on data and guidance that’s been gathered by other Councils. The team are undertaking a viability assessment as part of the development of the Local Plan.  If there are viability recommendations that suggest we need to make changes at pace, is the timescale to bring something to Full Council. Delegation needs to be crafted so there are no unintended consequences that could impact other work streams. Councillor Martin expressed his concerns about setting a dangerous precedent as this would be the only discretionary charge that could be changed outside of a Full Council meeting, if this were approved. It was confirmed that the Panel could make this Recommendation to Council  and that the whole budget process must be separated from variations in-year to the budget which is why the issue is going ahead to Council to be considered. It was confirmed to the Panel that new legislation is coming that will introduce a new process and that Officers would like to be empowered in an appropriate framework to enable making those decisions in the best  interests of the Council.

Councillor Taylor sought clarification as to Options 3:4:2 and 3:4:3 in the report, regarding making recommendations to Council. The Panel heard that, due to the nature of the report, it will go to Full Council in July. It is with the Panel tonight. The Chair requested further clarification from the Officer on the implications of delaying. The Panel heard that there are a number of 106  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9