Agenda and minutes

An apology for lateness was received from Councillor Mahtab Uddin (Cabinet Member for Public Health).

Members of the Cabinet are invited to identify any disclosable pecuniary, other pecuniary or non pecuniary interests relevant to items on the agenda.

There were no declarations of interest in respect of any items listed on the agenda.

To note, that no requests for deputations have been received for presentation to this Cabinet meeting.

NOTED that no requests for deputations had been received for presentation to this Cabinet meeting.

A report from the Director of Law and Governance is attached. (Non key)

(Report No.69)

(7.20 – 7.25 pm)

Councillor Ian Barnes (Deputy Leader) introduced the report of the Director of Law and Governance (No.69) setting out the Scrutiny work programme and work streams for 2019/20 for the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Health and Crime Standing Panels.

NOTED

1.            That comments were being invited on the Overview and Scrutiny Committee proposed work programme and work streams for 2019/20, prior to approval by Council.

2.            The draft work programmes for the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Health and Crime standing scrutiny panels as detailed in Appendix A of the report. The Overview and Scrutiny Committee work programme included a Budget meeting in December 2019. The programme allowed for the flexibility to consider call-ins and, for pre-decision scrutiny.

3.            The agreed workstreams for 2019/20, as set out in Appendix B of the report, were: Improving Enfield Shopping Areas (Lead Member: Cllr Tolga Aramaz) – this was a continuation of the workstream, to conclude the review and finalise recommendations; Review of Procurement (Lead Member: Cllr Edward Smith); Review of Exclusions (Lead Member: Cllr Bernadette Lappage); and, Meridian Water (Lead Member: Cllr Achilleas Georgiou).

4.            That Councillor Susan Erbil (Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee) was invited to address her comments to the Cabinet. It was noted that the 4^th listed work stream would begin when another one had been completed to allow for the required officer capacity in supporting this work. The date of the meeting to consider the Associate Cabinet Member work programmes was currently under consideration and would be advised in due course.

5.            Councillor Susan Erbil outlined her views to Cabinet on the role of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the way in which the Council’s scrutiny role would be conducted.

6.            The new statutory guidance on Overview and Scrutiny in Local and Combined Authorities as detailed in section 6 and appended to the report.

Alternative Options Considered: The Overview and Scrutiny Committee was required, under the Council’s Constitution, to present an annual scrutiny work programme to Council for adoption.  

DECISION: The Cabinet recommended the Overview and Scrutiny Committee proposed work programme and workstreams for 2019/20 to Council for approval.

Reason: To comply with the requirements of the Council’s Constitution, the work programme had to be formally adopted by Council. In addition, scrutiny was essential to good governance and enabled the voice and concerns of residents and communities to be heard, and provides positive challenge and accountability.

(Non key)

 A report from the Director of Law and Governance is attached. (Non key)

(Report No.70)

(7.25 – 7.30 pm)

Councillor Rick Jewell (Cabinet Member for Children’s Services) introduced the report of the Director of Law and Governance (No.70) providing the report of the scrutiny work stream on the transition of children leaving care.

NOTED

1.            The recommendations of the Scrutiny work stream together with the comments of the Cabinet Member and Executive Director, as detailed in the report.

2.            The conclusion of the work stream set out in section 12 of the report.

3.            That the work stream had been chaired by Councillor Susan Erbil.

4.            The statutory duties of the Local Authority and its role as a Corporate Parent, as detailed in the report. Looked after children were some of the most vulnerable children in society and as such, they needed and deserved the best possible support from the services available. The work stream had raised awareness of this important area of responsibility and several recommendations had been made, as set out in the report.

5.            Appendix A to the report set out the responses of the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Executive Director – People to the report and recommendations of the Transition of Children Leaving Care Scrutiny work stream. The recommendations were highlighted to Members.

6.            Councillor Susan Erbil, as Chair of the work stream, was invited to address any comments to the Cabinet. It was noted that members of the work stream had met with a cross-section of both officers and young people. The importance of the role of the local authority as Corporate Parent was highlighted together with the need to raise awareness of the responsibilities and duties of this statutory role.

7.            Members expressed their thanks and appreciation to all those who had been involved in supporting the work stream and, recognised the importance of this area of work. Councillor Ian Barnes thanked Claire Johnson in particular for the scrutiny report. The recommendations were welcomed. The need to provide effective support to care leavers was acknowledged.

8.            A discussion took place on the recommendations set out in the report including issues such as apprenticeships and supported leisure activities.

9.            Members took this opportunity to highlight and discuss the well-attended summer university programme which had been financially supported by the Council. Approximately 900 young people had taken part in this free programme. 85% of places had been taken up and completed. The Council expressed its commitment to continuing to support this programme in future years; and, would look at opportunities to expand and improve the training programmes on offer. Further consideration would also be given to the provision of free lunches to support those young people in need. The breadth of the courses which had been offered was praised and the resulting opportunities for young people in gaining such experience. It was noted that care leavers had also been targeted in the participation of the training on offer.

Alternative Options Considered: None, the Council had a legal duty as Corporate Parents to provide the best possible care to looked after children and care  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

A report from the Executive Director – Resources is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4944)

(Report No.71)

(7.30 – 7.35 pm)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Resources (No.71) setting out the Council’s revenue budget monitoring position based on information to the end of June 2019.

NOTED

1.            That after the application of capital receipts for transformation purposes of £2.6m; the revenue budget forecast reflected an outturn position of £3.9m overspend for 2019/20 which would be funded using the Council’s reserves, as detailed in the report.

2.            The forecast position for the Dedicated Schools Grant as detailed in the report (paragraph 1.4 and section 5 of the report referred).

3.            That the Housing Revenue Account was forecasting no variance to budget.

4.            The departmental monitoring information, budget pressures and mitigating actions as set out in the report and its appendices.

5.            The proposed flexible use of capital receipts as detailed in section 5 and Appendix I of the report.

6.            The background as set out in section 3 of the report. The continuing budget pressures being experienced; the areas most affected and the actions being taken as detailed in the report. Members’ continued to express their concern over inadequate Government funding to meet growing demand and pressures experienced by local government.

7.            That £0.6m of income generation was considered at high risk of not being realised, Appendix G, Table 7 of the report referred.

8.            That management actions were ongoing to continue to address these budget pressures and seek to improve budget forecasting. The Pressures Challenge Board had been reconvened.

9.            In response to questions raised, Members discussed the pressures being experienced in the area of Adult Social Care and in particular the highlighted budget pressures of Independence and Wellbeing Enfield (IWE) as set out in the report. The complex needs and high cost of provision in relation to the Learning Disabilities Service was noted. The pressures experienced and the impact of cases transitioning from child to adult support provision were explained. The range of issues experienced around the projection of the number of individual cases requiring support, and related costs were discussed in detail.

10.         The rising number of older people in the Borough, their long-term health conditions, and support required was noted. The Council’s investment in the provision of additional supported living opportunities in the Borough, including at the Reardon Court development was discussed. Long-term solutions were required to this area of growing need. It was noted that the provision of Adult Social Care was underfunded nationally, however, Enfield continued to provide good quality services to its residents.

11.         Members were reminded of the Council’s investment in Adult Social Care as part of this year’s budget process. Whilst an overspend was still forecast, the budget position for this area was a significant improvement from the previous year.

12.         In response to questions raised, Members discussed the provision and cost of Home to School/SEN transport in the Borough and the reasons for the projected overspend, as set out in paragraph 5.22 of the report. It was noted that the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.

A report from the Executive Director – Resources is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4943)

(Report No.72)

(7.35 – 7.40 pm)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Resources (No.72) informing Members of the current position up to the end of June 2019 regarding the Council’s Capital Programme (2019/20 to 2022/23) considering the latest information for all capital schemes including the funding arrangements.

NOTED

1.            That the overall expenditure for the approved programme was projected to be £144m for the General Fund, £117m for HRA and £24m for Enfield Companies for 2019/20.

2.            The successful Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF) award of £156m as set out in the report. The significance of this funding was highlighted and would enable the necessary infrastructure to be implemented at Meridian Water and unlock the potential for the next phase of housing development. It was essential for well-connected neighbourhoods to be developed to support positive growth and transform the lives of residents. Particular thanks were expressed to Sarah Cary (Executive Director – Place) and Peter George (Meridian Water Programme Director) together with the Meridian Water team for this significant achievement.

3.            That the report set out the estimated capital spending plans for 2019/20 to 2022/23 including the proposed arrangements for funding and confirmed that the revenue capital financing costs for the approved 2019/20 to 2022/23 programme were provided for in the budget.

4.            The information set out in the tables included within the report including the proposed additional items (table 3) and reductions (table 4). Appendix A set out the approved capital programme in detail. With regard to the additional funding required for Extra Care Housing at Reardon Court, it was noted that this had followed the increased funding contribution from the GLA and the resulting positive increase in the number of units to be provided. This increase in capital funding would be recommended to full Council for approval.

5.            In particular, the capital expenditure in relation to housing provision as highlighted in the report.

Alternative Options Considered: No alternative options had been considered.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to recommend to Council to

1.            Note the additions to the Capital Programme set out in Table 3 in paragraph 4.9 of the report and approved the addition of the following to the approved Capital Programme:

i.              Reardon Court and,

ii.            Corporate Capital Condition Programme (CCCP)

2.            The proposed reductions set out in Table 4 in paragraph 4.11 of the report.

3.            Note the £156m Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF) award.

4.            The revised four-year approved programme totalling £562m as set out in Appendix A of the report.

Reason: To update the programme for carry forwards from 2018/19 along with amendments to the Programme for additions and deletions since Council approval in February and also to inform members of the current forecast position at the end of the first quarter of the financial year. Additionally to bring to the attention of members for significant award of £156m of HIF grant.

(Key decision – reference number 4943)

A report from the Executive Director – Place is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4959)

(Report No.73)

(7.40 – 7.45 pm)

Councillor Gina Needs (Cabinet Member for Social Housing) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Place (No.73) outlining the Council’s response to homelessness in Enfield.

NOTED

1.            That the report of the Smith Institute was appended to the report. The report made it clear that the solutions to the rise of homelessness in the borough lie in the private rented sector. The scale of the challenge identified required a radical change of direction in how the Council addresses the needs of households in crisis.

2.            That the Council was currently consulting on its draft Homelessness Prevention Strategy. This report focused on the Council’s proposed response to the recommendations of the Smith Institute, alongside a vision for preventing and reducing homelessness with the aim of eliminating the use of temporary accommodation. Detailed proposals on a new service model for homelessness and temporary accommodation, an ethical lettings agency, and a revised allocation scheme would be brought to Cabinet following public consultation.

3.            The high number of poorer households living in the private rented sector in Enfield, as set out in the report together with the number in temporary accommodation.

4.            The key areas of focus as set out in section 4 of the report including homelessness prevention; scheme of allocation; cost effective supply; joining capital letters; establishing an ethical lettings and property management agency; engaging with landlords and agents to enhance and promote the supply of private rented homes; and, the establishment of additional and selective licensing to drive up the quality of homes.

5.            In response to questions raised, the role and purpose of Capital Letters (the Pan London Housing procurement agency) was explained in detail. The need for effective cross-borough working was highlighted. Councillors asked the questions on the appended sheet which also contains a note of the responses.

6.            That preventing homelessness was the key driver. The shortage of supply in suitable housing provision was acknowledged.

7.            The development of the Council’s Housing and Growth Strategy and Homelessness Prevention Strategy which would seek to prevent crisis points by getting involved at an early stage. The importance of prioritising homelessness prevention was highlighted.

8.            Members noted the revisions required to the scheme of allocation for social housing, a report would be presented to Cabinet in due course following a period of public consultation, as outlined in the report. The current and proposed points allocation was explained together with the impact on those residents in the private rented sector.

9.            The need to intervene and review the current model of social housing provision in the Borough to meet identified needs and effectively address the areas of concern as set out in the report. The role of Housing Gateway was outlined to Members.

10.         The importance of good quality housing on the health and wellbeing of residents. This would have long-term benefits on future service provision.

11.         Members praised the work of the Smith Institute and the clarity which had been provided by their report. The findings of the study were  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

A report from the Executive Director – Resources is attached. (Report No.78, agenda part two also refers) (Key decision – reference number 4642)

(Report No.74)

(7.45 – 7.50 pm)

Councillor Nesil Caliskan (Leader of the Council) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Resources (No.74) seeking the second tranche of funding to deliver the remainder of its business plan which included building the heating infrastructure required to serve Meridian Water.

NOTED

1.            That Report No.78 also referred as detailed in Minute No.15 below.

2.            That Energetik had previously received approval of its business plan and initial funding in January 2017, as detailed in the report. The company was now seeking it second tranche of funding to deliver the remainder of its business plan which included the heating infrastructure required to serve Meridian Water.

3.            The work which had been undertaken and progressed as set out in detail in the report. In October 2018 the Cabinet had asked Energetik to review alternative funding sources; and, in March 2019 a further update report on progress had been provided. The business plan had been thoroughly reviewed to ensure its viability going forward. The issue of addressing fuel poverty had now been incorporated, as noted in paragraph 1.3.3 of the report. The Business Plan had been independently reviewed by KPMG.

4.            The aims and benefits of Energetik as set out in the report. Appendix A to the report outlined the heat network update summary.

Alternative Options Considered: As detailed in Minute No.15 below.

DECISION: The decisions of Cabinet were set out in Minute No.15 below, Report No.78 referred.

Reason: Energetik had already had a positive impact on the customers living on its heat networks, with fair pricing and a high quality of service. The second investment in Energetik would allow the company to realise the remainder of its business plan, to serve over 10,000 homes and businesses in Enfield and beyond. The company’s aims and objectives were aligned with the Council’s key strategic goals, and would contribute significantly to the Council’s carbon reduction targets, improve air quality in the area and provide environmentally friendly energy to Enfield residents at a fair price.

(Key decision – reference number 4642)

To receive a verbal update.

Councillor Ian Barnes (Deputy Leader) provided the Cabinet with a verbal update on the work being undertaken by the Council’s Brexit Panel of which he was Chair. Councillor Ian Barnes also tabled the risk register. He updated Cabinet that the Brexit Panel was originally chaired by the previous Deputy Leader. The risk register previously was only 7 pages long. Over the past few weeks Councillor Barnes had worked with officers to update the risk register department by department. Current risk register is 47 pages and now comprehensive.

NOTED the following points raised in discussion:

1.            The continued uncertainty around Brexit including the actions of the current Government and the negative impact on the economy and EU citizens.

2.            The work being undertaken in safeguarding the future of EU residents living in Enfield by the Council in conjunction with the Citizens Advice Service. Outreach sessions were being held to reach EU residents in their own communities to raise awareness of their need to apply for settled status. Advice and assistance was being provided in completing the necessary registration applications so that they can continue to remain in Enfield post Brexit. Such residents were required to register by the Government deadline of 31 December 2020 but were being encouraged to register as soon as possible.

3.            That as part of the increased communications campaign in the Borough, Councillor Nesil Caliskan as Leader of the Council and Councillor Ian Barnes as Deputy Leader, had written to approximately 21,000 EU residents in the Borough to encourage the required registration to take place.

4.            The Council had prepared a comprehensive risk register. The need for a glossary of terms of abbreviations used was noted.

5.            There would be additional emergency Gold Commands in place the week before and after 31 October 2019.

6.            The close work being undertaken with the Citizens Advice Bureau, particular thanks and appreciation were expressed to the Enfield Chief Executive, Jill Harrison for her considerable efforts. The Council was supporting the CAB with additional resources as and when necessary.

7.            That the Home Office would not currently release the figures to the Council of the number of EU residents in Enfield who had already registered for settled status.

8.            The potential negative impact of Brexit on the supply of goods, on the provision of social care, and on businesses in general.

9.            In conclusion, Councillor Caliskan, reiterated the significance of Brexit and its potential effects on the Borough and its residents. Thanks were expressed to the Brexit Panel, under the leadership of Councillor Barnes, for their valuable and detailed work which would continue. The potential risks of a no deal Brexit were highlighted, including the potential impact on the work force delivering adult social care. The Council would continue to seek to mitigate the risks to the Borough’s residents. Communications would continue with hard to reach EU residents and communities and the Council would work closely with its partners. The work being undertaken by London Councils was highlighted.

10.         Members expressed  ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.

Attached for information is a provisional list of items scheduled for future Cabinet meetings.

NOTED, for information, the provisional list of items scheduled for future Cabinet meetings.

To confirm the minutes of the previous meetings of the Cabinet held on 8 July and 17 July 2019.  

AGREED, that the minutes of the previous meetings of the Cabinet held on 8 July and 17 July 2019 be confirmed and signed by the Chair as a correct record.

To note that the next meeting of the Cabinet is scheduled to take place on Wednesday 16 October 2019.  

NOTED, that the next meeting of the Cabinet was scheduled to take place on Wednesday 16 October 2019 at 7.15pm.

To consider passing a resolution under Section 100(A) of the Local Government Act 1972 excluding the press and public from the meeting for the items of business listed on part 2 of the agenda on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in those paragraphs of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Act (as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006).

(Members are asked to refer to the part two agenda)

RESOLVED, in accordance with Section 100(A) of the Local Government Act 1972 to exclude the press and public from the meeting for the item of business listed on part two of the agenda on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 (information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information) of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Act (as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006).

A report from the Executive Director – Resources is attached. This should be read in conjunction with Report No.74, agenda part one refers. (Key decision – reference number 4642)

(This item contains exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 (information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person – including the authority holding that information) of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, as amended)

(Report No.78)

Councillor Nesil Caliskan (Leader of the Council) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Resources (No.78).

NOTED

1.            That Report No.74 also referred as detailed in Minute No.9 above.

2.            The financial implications of the proposed investment decision as set out in detail in the report and the approvals required by full Council. The work which had been undertaken to date and the confirmation awaited regarding the external funding sources. The business plan had been refreshed and scrutinised as outlined in the report.

3.            That approval was being sought for further investment to fund phase 2a of the Energetik business plan up to 2024. Further reports would be presented to future Cabinet meetings as and when required for consideration and approval.

4.            Members were provided with an update on the existing programmes of work and those proposed in the future, as outlined in the report. All potential opportunities would continue to be explored covering both Council and private developments. The viability and costs involvement in further network expansions were outlined in detail. The long-term aims and aspirations of Energetik were discussed and, the issues to be taken into consideration in moving forward were noted.

5.            The progress in the development of Meridian Water and the phased approach that was now being taken which reduced the potential risks, and increased flexibility.

6.            Members acknowledged the issues which had been raised for discussion. The Business Plan had been scrutinised in detail and the external funding sources sought as required. The positive environmental impact that Energetik could continue to develop in the Borough was noted together with the aim of tackling fuel poverty.

7.            That any impact from Brexit would be addressed as appropriate and necessary.

Alternative Options Considered: NOTED, the alternative options that had been considered as detailed in full in section 4 of the report.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to recommend to Council to

1.            Approve a further investment of £30m, to fund phase 2a of Energetik business plan up to 2024 which was contingent on the Council securing HNIP and MEEF funding as set out in the table in paragraph 3.50 of the report. For the avoidance of doubt, the execution of the Heat Supply Agreement with the NLWA was a condition precedent on the Council releasing the approved funding being sought, as detailed in paragraph 3.4.4 of the report.

2.            Should the Council not be able to demonstrate the need for HNIP gap funding by January 2020 as set out in the table at paragraph 3.50 of the report, the decision on an updated investment strategy would be brought back to Cabinet.

3.            Approve the forecast £7.25m, allocation to be added to the Council’s “Projects in the Pipeline”. Addition to the approved programme would require relevant Council and Cabinet approval. Tranche 2b was the remaining investment required to deliver the full Energetik business case on the current assumptions and timelines.

4.            Approve the revisions to the company’s 40-year Business Plan as outlined within the company’s Business Plan Addendum  ...  view the full minutes text for item 15.