Issue - meetings

Peter Stuart, Head of Corporate Services introduced the end of year report. He highlighted the references to the pandemic and confirmed that there had been an impact on performance.  Members were informed of the impact on NNDR collection and the demand for housing. He noted recommendation (iii) which sought to review the performance indicators and traffic light parameters to better reflect the current situation.

The Deputy Leader supported the review of the performance indicators. 

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Service Delivery noted the postponement of the food waste trial and thanked the officers for their hard work. He highlighted the new indicators for litter and detritus collections and the positive  feedback from the public concerning waste collection services.

The Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning noted pressure for temporary overnight accommodation due to the pandemic and providing accommodation for the homeless.  He confirmed the ongoing demand for social housing. 

The Cabinet Member for Customer Services welcomed the report and noted the challenges to the Council due to the pandemic.  She highlighted the accuracy in carrying out Housing Benefit assessments and thanked the staff.

The Cabinet Member for Economic Growth noted the usefulness of the rag rating system to highlight areas where attention is required.  He enquired how the Council could help households threatened with eviction.

The Assistant Chief Executive confirmed the Government’s measures during the pandemic to eradicate homelessness.  She highlighted the continuing work of the Council with those households who are homeless and stated that there would be an increased demand for assistance after the lockdown.

The Leader confirmed the increased importance for the improvements in fibre capability as businesses work differently in the future, and this included Council staff working from home.  There is now a need for strong, reliable, fast connectivity.

The Leader took the Members to the recommendations contained in the report, which were agreed unanimously.

RESOLVED

Cabinet noted:

i)        the Council’s performance and progress with flagship activities in 2019/20 and identify any areas where further reporting or information is required;

ii)       the impact on Council Services of the COVID-19 Pandemic which was begun to be realised in March 2020 but will be seen more clearly in the 2020-21 Quarter 1 report to Cabinet; and

iii)      the proposals to review 2020-21 Performance Indicators and traffic light parameters, giving consideration to the COVID-19 pandemic response and recovery, with recommendations to be presented as part of the Quarter 1 report.