Agenda and minutes

There were no apologies for absence.

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 Executive Director – Place is attached. (Report No.175, agenda part two also refers). (Key decision – reference number 4810)

(Report No.159)

(7.20 – 7.30 pm)

Councillor Guney Dogan (Cabinet Member for Environment) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Place (No.159) proposing that the Council adopts a revised waste and recycling collection system for kerbside properties with a wheeled bin.

NOTED

1.            That Report No.175 also referred as detailed in Minute No.18 below.

2.            The proposal for a revised waste and recycling collection system for kerbside properties with a wheeled bin as set out in full in the report and summarised in section 1. The financial context and implications of the proposals were explained within the Council’s overall budget pressures and funding constraints, summarised in section 3 of the report.

3.            That the Council currently spent approximately £15.1m on collecting, treating and disposing and waste and recycling across the Borough. Waste disposal costs were likely to significantly increase. Additionally, the former Government grant of £2.4 million to retain weekly collections for waste and recycling had now ceased (paragraph 3.7 of the report referred).

4.            That the Council had been reviewing various areas across the organisation to try to meet the current and future budget gap. The work which had been undertaken in reviewing the waste and recycling collections was set out in detail in the report and considered by Members.

5.            That the primary driver to implement the changes was financial savings, and then conformity with the London Mayor’s Environment Strategy and, to consider the responses to the consultation which had been undertaken. Financial savings for Option 7 were significantly higher when compared to any other proposal or current collection system; it conformed with the London Mayor’s Environment Strategy; and, had a projected increase in recycling to 49%. It had been the least preferred option amongst the respondents to the consultation. Retaining the current system had been the preferred option of the people that responded.

6.            In summary the proposal was to:

·         Collect refuse every fortnight rather than weekly (collections from the property would be made on the alternative week to collections for dry recycling)

·         Collect dry recycling every fortnight rather than weekly (collections from the property to be made on the alternative week to collections for refuse)

·         Provide a new service of a weekly separate food waste collection

·         Introduce a £65 per year charge to collect garden waste from households that opt into the scheme (additional bins per property to be charged at £65 per year)

·         Recruitment of 2 additional Recycling Officers

·         Recruitment of 2 additional Enforcement Officers

·         Invest £500k in Street Cleansing Services

7.            That the total net savings over the 5-year business plan would be £7.5m from Waste Services and £2.2m of re-investment into Street Cleansing Services over the same period.

8.            The context within which this proposal should be considered is that of the Council’s budget and financial constraints. This was a difficult time for local government and it was essential to ensure that the Council’s decision-making was responsible and financially resilient in going forward; and, protected the most vulnerable residents who depended on the Council’s service provision.

9.            A  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.

A report from the Director of Finance is attached. (Report No.172 agenda part two also referred). (Key decision – reference number 4744)

(Report No.160)

(7.30 – 7.40 pm)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Director of Finance (No.160) proposing the general revenue budget and council tax for the 2019/20 financial year.

NOTED

1.            That Report No.172 also referred as detailed in Minute No.19 below.

2.            That the budget was being set within difficult financial circumstances with continuing Government funding cuts and further savings of £18m being sought next year. The budget proposals were realistic, robust, delivered on the Council’s priorities and sought to protect the most vulnerable residents in the Borough.

3.            The detailed summary of the recommendations as set out in section 1 of the report. The proposals were the culmination of the 2019/20 budget planning process. The report included details of the Local Government financial settlement for Enfield, the cost pressures faced and, made recommendations regarding the Schools’ budget.

4.            That the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy and Capital Strategy and 4-year Capital Programme were contained in separate reports as detailed in Minute Nos. 6 and 7 below.

5.            The recommendations made within the report regarding the appropriate level for the Council’s contingencies, balances and earmarked reserves. It was important to ensure that reserves were maintained at an acceptable level and a responsible approach taken.

6.            The detailed proposals contained within the report and its appendices, including budget allocations to assist the most vulnerable for example, for the Council Tax Support Scheme; the Concessionary Fares Scheme; and, for Children’s Services.

7.            The national context and local government finance settlement set out in section 3 of the report. The settlement confirmed real term cuts to Settlement Funding Assessment of 6.5% across London and nationally in 2019/20 and cumulative real terms cuts to core funding of 63% across London between 2010 and 2020. Members noted the increasing financial pressures being faced and, the significant work undertaken by Cabinet Members and senior officers in minimising the negative effects of further saving requirements on the Borough’s most vulnerable residents. Pressures were increasing on local government service provision at a time of continuing Government funding reductions. Further savings of £18m were required in 2019/20.

8.            Members expressed their appreciation to Councillor Maguire and acknowledged the vigorous scrutiny of the Council’s budgets that had taken place. Efforts were being made to maximise the Council’s income generation.

9.            The minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee budget meeting held on 31 January 2019 which were tabled at the meeting. The scrutiny process had been thorough.

10.         A discussion followed on the budget proposals and comments made as summarised below. The hard work of both Cabinet Members and Officers was recognised and praised in the delivery of the budget which sought to minimise the impact on the Borough’s residents.

11.         Members’ continued frustration at the level of Government funding cuts and the historical fair funding argument through which Enfield and other Outer London Boroughs’ formula funding was disproportionately low to the detriment of Enfield residents. Such funding issues were becoming increasingly challenging and negatively affected the Council’s  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

A report from the Director of Finance is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4829)

(Report No.161)

(7.40 – 7.45 pm)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Director of Finance (No.161) seeking approval to the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy 2019/20.

NOTED

1.            That the Council’s cashflow management, use of banks, investments and borrowing was governed by the Treasury Management Strategy, as detailed in the report.

2.            The background information set out in section 3 of the report. The successful identification, monitoring and control of risk were central to the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy and to mitigate these risks.

3.            That as at 31 December 2018 the Council had £804m of borrowing in total, as set out in paragraph 3.7 of the report. The Council would not borrow more than or in advance of its needs. The Council was required to invest its funds prudently. Given the increasing risks and continued low returns from short term unsecured bank investments, the Council aimed to reduce the level of investments held by continuing to internalise borrowing (paragraph 3.8 of the report referred).

4.            The detailed information set out in the Treasury Management Statement and its appendices.

5.            In response to questions raised, the mitigating measures that were taken to minimise risks were outlined to Members. It was noted that the budget proposals contained an interest rate risk reserve. A prudent approach was taken by the Council.

Alternative Options Considered: NOTED, that there were no other options, the Treasury Management reports need to be approved prior to the next financial year. Section 7 of the Treasury Management Strategy set out the alternatives considered.

RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL

1.            To agree the Treasury Management Strategy 2019/20.

2.            To note the economic context and interest rate forecast (Appendices A and B of the Strategy referred).

3.            To agree the Prudential Indicators (Appendix D of the Strategy referred)

4.            To agree the Minimum Revenue Provision Statement (Appendix E of the Strategy referred)

5.            To agree the Counter-party List and Limits (Appendix F of the Strategy referred).

Reason: These items had been brought to the attention of the Audit and Risk Management Committee in line with the requirements of the CIPFA Code of Practice.

(Key decision – reference number 4829)

A report from the Director of Finance is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4828)

(Report No.162)

(7.45 – 7.50 pm)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Director of Finance (No.162) setting the 2019/20 – 2022/23 capital programme and seeking approval to the capital strategy 2019/20.

NOTED

1.            That the Capital Strategy was a new requirement which became mandatory for 2019/20 onwards and introduced as part of the update of the Prudential Code, as set out in the report.

2.            The capital programme summary and the schemes within the Corporate Property Investment Programme as set out in the report. The detail within the appendices to the report were noted.

Alternative Options Considered: Not applicable to this report.

RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL

1.            To agree the 2019/20 Capital Strategy.

2.            The Capital Programme for 2019/20 to 2022/23 as set out in Appendix 2 – Table A of the report referred, including new projects arising from revenue savings.

3.            To note the projects in the approval cycle as detailed in Appendix 2 – Table B of the report referred, which would be added to the 2019/20 Capital Programme pending approval.

4.            To note the projects in the pipeline as detailed in Appendix 2 – Table C of the report referred.

Reason: To set the 2019/20 – 2022/23 Capital programme and agree the Capital Strategy 2019/20.

(Key decision – reference number 4828)

Members expressed their appreciation to the Director of Finance, Interim Director of Finance, all Executive Directors and Directors for the considerable work which had been undertaken on all of the budget related reports and proposals being presented to Members for approval at this meeting.

A report from the Executive Director – Place and Director of Finance is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4741)

(Report No.163)

(7.50 – 7.55 pm)

Councillor Dino Lemonides (Cabinet Member for Housing) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Place and Director of Finance (No.163) setting out the proposed HRA 30-year business plan, the detailed HRA Revenue Budget for 2019/20, the five-year Capital Programme and Right to Buy (RTB) One for One Receipts programme (2019/20 to 2023/24).

NOTED

1.            That the report also presented the level of rents, service charges and heating charges to be operative with effect from 1 April 2019 for HRA Council Tenants and Leaseholders.

2.            That the report should also be read in conjunction with Report No.165 – Better Council Homes Workplan and Budgets 2019/20 (Minute No.10 below refers).

3.            The changes in the Government’s social rent policy as outlined in paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3 of the report. From April 2020 local authorities would be allowed to increase rents by CPI plus 1%.

4.            The key changes for Housing since the 2018/19 Rent Setting report as set out in paragraph 3.4 of the report.

5.            The detailed capital programme set out in section 7 of the report including major works to the housing stock. The major works programme would aim to deliver: priority fire safety works and development of piloting a high-rise homes standard; decent homes works to approximately 7,000 properties, including kitchens and bathrooms; and, environmental and energy improvements.

6.            That the Council had been successful in securing £18.1m of GLA grant for the next 3 years as part of the Building Council Homes for Londoners scheme, paragraph 7.6 of the report referred.

7.            The information within section 8 of the report regarding the Right to Buy one for one replacement receipts and expenditure.

8.            The proposed rent charges for HRA properties and service charges for 2019/20 as set out in sections 10 and 11 of the report.

9.            The heating charges outlined in section 13 of the report and the reasons for the proposed increases.

10.         In response, Members expressed their thanks to Councillor Lemonides and the officers involved for the significant work that had been undertaken and now being presented for approval, within the current financial constraints and challenges faced. Members also took this opportunity to praise the work of individual housing members of staff for their sensitivity and dedication in dealing with difficult housing circumstances faced by residents.

11.         That whilst the Government cap on borrowing had been lifted, as set out in the report, there were still limitations and requirements that had to be met, including the development of rigorous business plans. Members noted the work that was already being undertaken regarding stock condition surveys and long-term planning.

12.         The importance of the proposed fire safety works, together with the need to ensure that residents were fully aware of all relevant fire prevention issues with the assistance of the fire brigade. Safety was paramount. Members were advised of the appointment of a Council Safety Director with effect from 1 March 2019.

Alternative Options Considered: NOTED, that since the Government had implemented the Social Housing Policy  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

A report from the Director of Finance is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4764)

(Report No.164)

(7.55 – 8.00 pm)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Director of Finance (No.164) setting out the Council’s revenue budget monitoring position based on information to the end of December 2018.

NOTED

1.            That after the application of capital receipts for transformation purposes of £4.2m; the revenue budget forecast reflected an outturn position of £4.1m overspend for 2018/19 which would be funded using the Council’s reserves. The key reasons for the improved position were noted, as outlined in paragraph 1.2 of the report.

2.            That since 2010, the Council had saved £161m. Members noted the challenges for 2018/19 as detailed in paragraph 1.3 of the report.

3.            That Table 1 of the report set out the forecast projected departmental outturn variances. Members further noted the management actions being taken, the key factors of the overspend and, the establishment of the Pressures Challenge Board, as outlined in paragraphs 4.4 – 4.6 of the report.

4.            The departmental monitoring information, budget pressures and mitigating actions as set out in section 5 and the appendices of the report.

5.            In response to a question raised, Members were advised on the availability of existing capital receipts of £4.2m for the current financial year.

Alternative Options Considered: Not applicable to this report.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to note

1.            The financial backdrop to the Council’s budget position (described in paragraphs 3.1 to 3.9 of the report).

2.            The £4.1m overspend revenue outturn projection and the use of £4.2m of capital receipts to support organisation transformation.

3.            That Cabinet Members would continue to work with Executive Directors to implement action plans to reduce the forecast overspend in 2018/19 and implement savings.

Reason: To ensure that Members were aware of the projected budgetary position, including all major budget pressures and underspends which had contributed to the present monthly position and that were likely to affect the final outturn.

(Key decision – reference number 4764)

A report from the Executive Director – Place is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4830)

(Report No.165)

(8.00 – 8.05 pm)

Councillor Dino Lemonides (Cabinet Member for Housing) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Place (No.165) setting out the Better Council Homes Workplan and Budgets for 2019/20.

NOTED

1.            That the provision and growth of good quality, affordable Council homes was a key priority for the Council, as set out in the report. This was an ambitious workplan which would result in significant improvements.

2.            As set out in Appendix 2 and section 6 of the report, the major works programme for 2019/20 was expected to cost £41m. This would fund existing and proposed projects including £6.5m for fire safety works. This would be funded from HRA reserves.

3.            The detailed proposals set out in the report regarding Better Quality Homes and Environments; Better Quality Housing Services; Delivering More Affordable Homes; and, Regenerating Estates (section 3 of the report referred).

4.            The proposals for reinvigorating the Housing Advisory Board to ensure that residents including tenants and leaseholders had a role in advising Cabinet on housing policy and performance issues.

5.            Members welcomed the report and noted the significant investment into the Council’s housing stock with approximately 7,000 homes set to benefit. The specific proposals regarding fire safety was also recognised, this was a key priority for the Council.

6.            That good quality housing was one of the main determinants of good health and the proposals would have a positive impact on addressing health inequalities and improving outcomes for residents.

7.            Both the short and long-term proposals in going forward. Further reports would be presented to future Cabinet meetings as appropriate, as set out in the report.  

Alternative Options Considered: Not spending the GLA external funding of £18m would restrict the delivery of affordable housing on key housing sites and damage the Council’s reputation as an investment partner with the GLA. If the Council did not spend the Right to Buy Receipts on Council Homes in the specified period it would be required to repay receipts plus interest to government. Although the GLA Right to Buy offer would give the Council longer to spend any returned receipts it would be given less flexibility on the projects that the Council could fund.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to

Better Quality Homes and Environments

1.            Consider the recommendations from the Repairs Task Force regarding the preferred option for the delivery of the responsive repairs service at the Cabinet meeting in April.

2.            Delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Housing in consultation with the Director of Housing and Regeneration to approve the Major Works programme for 2019/20 based on a priority approach including fire safety works as outlined in Appendix 2 of the report.

3.            Delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Housing in consultation with the Director of Law and Governance to approve the major works procurement plan noting that all such procurement activity would be carried out in accordance with the statutory OJEU framework and the Council’s procurement rules to ensure that the programme delivers value for money for tenants and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.

A report from the Director – Commercial is attached. (Non key)

(Report No.166)

(8.05 – 8.10 pm)

Councillor Ahmet Oykener (Cabinet Member for Property and Assets) introduced the report of the Director – Commercial (No.166) seeking approval to a list of Shareholder Reserved Matters.

NOTED

1.            That the Council must be able to exercise appropriate control and influence over its wholly-owned companies in order for them to contribute to its objectives and manage risks whilst at the same time allowing the companies appropriate freedoms and flexibilities to operate commercially, as set out in the report.

2.            That the list of shareholder reserved matters had been taken to the Shareholder Board at its meeting on 29 January 2019. The list had originally included an item on “payment of a political donation”. The Board had requested that this should instead be addressed via a blanket prohibition included in all Company Articles (section 9 of the report referred).

Alternative Options Considered: Do Nothing. The companies continue to operate with divergent and in some cases minimal shareholder reserved matters. This option would not improve governance and strategic alignment with the Council’s objectives.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed that

1.            Each company adopted the list of shareholder reserved matters as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report.

2.            Changes be made to the Company Articles (if required) in order to give effect to the list of shareholder reserved matters.

3.            Authority be delegated to the Council’s Commercial Director, acting in consultation with the Director of Law and Governance and the Director of Finance, to finalise and implement the list of shareholder reserved matters.

4.            The Council works with each company to develop a Shareholder Agreement and timetable for changes needed to governance arrangements.

5.            Authority be delegated to the Council’s Commercial Director, acting in consultation with the Director of Law and Governance and the Director of Finance, to agree the terms of and implement the Shareholder Agreement with each of the companies.

Reason: These governance changes were required to improve the way the Council worked with its companies as a Shareholder and to ensure that suitable and streamlined governance was in place across the companies.

(Non key)

A report from the Executive Director – Place is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4795)

(Report No.167)

(8.10 – 8.15 pm)

Councillor Guney Dogan (Cabinet Member for Environment) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Place (No.167) seeking approval to the Enfield Rural Catchment Project as outlined in the report.

NOTED

1.            That it was proposed to use natural flood management measures to reduce flood risk in the Salmons Brook catchment. A feasibility study would also be carried out to investigate the additional benefits and costs associated with creating a significant amount of publicly accessible woodland in rural areas of Enfield.

2.            That the project had been awarded £303k funding by the Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee and the Environment Agency. Additional external funding would be sought and used to expand the scope of the project where bids were successful.

3.            Members praised the excellent work which was being undertaken and commended the officers involved, particularly Ian Russell. The work being undertaken in Enfield was a beacon to other Local Authorities.

4.            The public health benefits of the project. In this regard, Officers were asked to give consideration to the future possibilities of “forest bathing” and “woodland burials”.

Alternative Options Considered: Do nothing. This scheme is part of a series of improvements to reduce the risk of flooding in the Salmons Brook catchment. To do nothing would lose an opportunity to attract significant funding to the London Borough of Enfield, improve the environment, for both people and wildlife, and reduce flood risk to local residents and infrastructure. Furthermore, it would mean the loss of an opportunity to comply with one of the actions identified in the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to

1.            Approve the works to deliver the Salmons Brook Natural Flood Management project.

2.            Note the proposal to sue grants to fund a feasibility study to investigate the benefits and costs of creating up to 100 hectares of woodland in rural areas of Enfield with associated access improvements.

3.            Delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Environment to approve delivery of the Woodland Creation scheme based on the findings of the feasibility study in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Property and Assets.

4.            Delegate authority to the Director of Environment and Operational Services to authorise the placing of orders through any of the Council’s existing relevant term contracts or to invite and evaluate tenders/quotations and, where suitable tenders/quotations were received, to authorise the award of contracts for the works in compliance with the Council’s procurement rules.

Reason: Improved flood protection through the creation of Natural Flood Management features which would reduce the risk of flooding to properties downstream. The detailed reasons for the recommendations were set out in section 5 of the report.

(Key decision – reference number 4795)

A report from the Executive Director – Place is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4821)

(Report No.168)

(8.15 – 8.20 pm)

Councillor Guney Dogan (Cabinet Member for Environment) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Place (No.168) setting out the business case and seeking approval for capital funding of £6.45 million for the 2019/20 programme for Highways and Street Scene.

NOTED

1.            That the programme included maintenance activities for roads, pavements, bridges and other associated highway assets, public realm improvements, flood management and alley-gating. The budget also included £0.25m to contribute to the Albany Park River Restoration Scheme.

2.            Members welcomed the programme of works as set out in the report, whilst recognising the financial challenges being faced. In response to questions raised regarding the use of sustainable materials for road surfacing and repairs, Members were advised of the trials which were taking place and, the developments which were continuing. The use of sustainable materials and techniques continued to be explored and developed. Members noted the specific trials which had taken place within Enfield and the positive reactions which had been received.

3.            In discussion, questions were raised in addressing equalities issues through such works where possible; for example, incorporating dropped kerbs in pavements and, the use of sensors on pavements where appropriate to activate specific lighting. In response Members were advised of the programme of installing dropped kerbs and an energy saving example within the Borough of pavement lighting sensors.

Alternative Options Considered: It was recognised that that level of funding required far exceeded the level of funding available taking into account the many other pressures and priorities for the Council. Alternative levels of funding would allow programmes to be progressed at different rates with corresponding implications on the maintenance backlog. Like all highway authorities, Enfield therefore deploys a combination of asset management techniques to deal with this scenario, including reactive and programmed treatments and, in the worst case scenario, closure.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to

1.            Approve the business case for a sustained level of capital funding for Highways and Street Scene as shown in the Council’s Indicative Capital Programme up to and including 2021/2022.

2.            Approve, for recommendation to Council, the 2019/20 capital budget of £6.45 million for highways and street scene, and for its inclusion in the capital report to Council.

3.            Delegate authority to the Cabinet Member for Environment to approve programmes and schemes within the approved allocation for 2019/20.

RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL to approve the 2019/20 capital budget of £6.45 million for highways and street scene, and for its inclusion in the capital report to Council.

Reason: Confirmation of the capital budget would allow the Council to continue with its programme of maintaining the condition of its carriageways, footways, bridges and associated assets, thereby supporting the Council’s ability to comply with legal obligations and codes of practice. A sustained level of capital funding was essential to maintain the highway network and avoid potentially more costly maintenance in future years.

(Key decision – reference number 4821)

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 meeting of the Cabinet held on 23 January 2019.

AGREED, that the minutes of the previous meeting of the Cabinet held on 23 January 2019 be confirmed and signed by the Chair as a correct record.

To note that the next Cabinet meeting is scheduled to take place on Tuesday 12 March 2019 at 7.15pm.

NOTED, that the next meeting of the Cabinet was scheduled to take place on Tuesday 12 March 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 2 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 items listed on part two of the agenda on the grounds that they involve 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 – Place is attached. This should be read in conjunction with Report No.159, agenda part one refers. (Key decision – reference number 4810)

(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.175)

Councillor Guney Dogan (Cabinet Member for Environment) introduced the report of the Executive Director – Place (No.175).

NOTED

1.            That Report No.159 also referred as detailed in Minute No.4 above.

2.            The financial sensitivity analysis as set out in the report.

3.            A detailed discussion took place on the information provided with Officers present responding to points of clarification raised by the Cabinet Members and giving assurances on the projections and service delivery.

4.            An explanation was provided on the modelling which had taken place based on the Enfield socio-demographics, as detailed in the report, and the projected figures. It was accepted that officers could not “guarantee” an exact figure. However, every effort had been made to reach a considered and reasoned proposal and officers were committed to delivering the changes as set out in the report.

5.            The role of the Strategic Delivery Board was reiterated; and, the importance of monitoring both financial and recycling performance and taking appropriate actions to ensure that the service was operating as effectively as possible was noted. Resources would be targeted as necessary.

6.            A discussion took place on the experiences of other local authorities, examples of those (Teignbridge and Hounslow) achieving the take up rates that had been predicted by the modelling. Assurances were provided on the rigorous processes which had been undertaken by the consultants and officers in reaching the proposals set out in the report and recommended to Members for approval.

7.            The financial implications and projections were discussed and assurances provided to Members.

8.            That thorough scrutiny of the proposals had taken place. Councillor Caliskan commended officers on the detail of the work that had been undertaken and the quality of the reports presented. Thanks were expressed to Councillor Dogan and all of the officers involved. It was reiterated that this had been a difficult decision for the Council to take.

Alternative Options Considered: As detailed In Report No.159, Minute No.4 above referred.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed the recommendations as set out in the part one report (Report No.159, Minute No.4 above referred).

Reason: As detailed In Report No.159, Minute No.4 above referred.

(Key decision – reference number 4810)

A report from the Director of Finance is attached. This should be read in conjunction with Report No.160, agenda part one refers. (Key decision – reference number 4744)

(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.172)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Director of Finance (No.172).

NOTED

1.            That Report No.160 also referred as detailed in Minute No.5 above.

2.            That the report provided the commercially sensitive information relating to the proposed fees and charges as set out in the report. Section 9.3 of the part one report (Report No.160, Minute No.5 above) set out the basis on which the fees and charges had been reviewed for 2019/20.

3.            In response to questions raised, Officers undertook to provide Cabinet Members with information relating to non-commercial activities for parks and outdoor facilities and any discretionary elements that existed; and, information regarding biodiversity and insect numbers.

Alternative Options Considered: As detailed in Report No.160, Minute No.5 above referred.

RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL that the Pest Control, Commercial Waste, Schedule 2 waste, clinical waste, Planning pre-application service, Parks events and outdoor facilities, People Transport Services, Fleet services fees and charges for the Place Department; as well as the Schools Health and Safety Charges and Print Services charges within the Chief Executive’s Department be agreed as set out in Section 3 and Appendices 1 and 2 of the report. In addition, reference was made in Appendices 3 and 4 of the report to the potential discounts available within Resources and People (Children’s) Services Departments where appropriate to market conditions.

Reason: As detailed in Report No.160, Minute No.5 above referred.

(Key decision – reference number 4744)