Issue - meetings

Overview and Scrutiny (O&S) is a statutory function of all councils operating an executive model of decision making.  In BCP Council, O&S activity is carried out by four O&S committees formed of councillors and co-opted members.  There is a requirement to report on the work of O&S to Council, to ensure good visibility of the function and Council ownership of any improvements required.

The annual report contains a summary of O&S activity undertaken over 2019-23, reflections on working practices and an action plan identifying strategic improvements to the O&S function.

All O&S Committees will receive the annual report for consideration, providing opportunity for comment prior to the supply of the final report to Council.

The Scrutiny Specialist presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'A' to these Minutes in the Minute Book, in addition when presenting the Scrutiny Specialist referred to a power point presentation a copy of which is published on the Councils website.

The Committee was advised that Overview and Scrutiny is a statutory function of all councils operating an executive model of decision making. 

In relation to this the Committee was advised that in BCP Council, O&S activity is carried out by four O&S committees formed of councillors and co-opted members. 

In addition, the Committee was informed that there is a requirement to report on the work of O&S to Council, to ensure good visibility of the function and Council ownership of any improvements required.

The Committee was advised that the annual report contains a summary of O&S activity undertaken over 2019-23, reflections on working practices and an action plan identifying strategic improvements to the O&S function.

In relation to this the Committee was informed that all O&S Committees will receive the annual report for consideration, providing opportunity for comment prior to the supply of the final report to Council.

In discussion Members commented on:

·        Welcoming the opportunity to reboot O&S in this new council term;

·        Recognising the importance of culture to effective O&S;

·        A desire to work more collaboratively and influence policy for the benefit of residents;

·       Anticipated structural changes to O&S that would see the Place O&S Committee give greater focus to climate, environment and sustainability matters.  In relation to this, the Chairman asked the committee to provide him with any comments that they may have on the future remit of the Place O&S Committee.

RESOLVED that: -

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee considered and commented on the annual report and associated action plan.

Voting: Unanimous