The meeting started with a welcome to new councillors and a reminder of meeting protocols. The main topics discussed included declarations of interest, approval of previous meeting minutes, an update on the external auditor's report, and various committee reports. The most significant discussion was on the two-child benefit cap.

Two-Child Benefit Cap

The council debated a motion to scrap the two-child benefit cap on Universal Credit, introduced by the Conservative Government in April 2017. Councillor Hannah Kitching and Councillor Steve Hunt argued that the policy is cruel and unnecessary, pushing children into poverty and forcing victims of rape to relive their trauma to claim exemptions. They criticized Labour leader Keir Starmer for not committing to scrapping the policy. An amendment was proposed by Councillor Caroline Makinson to consider scrapping the cap when finances allow, which was accepted. The motion was passed, urging the government and the Labour Party to prioritize ending the cap.

External Auditor's Report

Councillor Alan Frost provided an update on the external auditor's report, confirming that Barnsley Council's arrangements for delivering value-for-money services are sound. The auditor examined financial sustainability, governance, and economy, efficiency, and effectiveness, finding no weaknesses.

Committee Reports

Several committee reports were approved, including those from the General Licensing Regulatory Board, Overview and Scrutiny Committee, and various Area Councils. Notable discussions included:

• South Area Council: Councillor Osborne highlighted the work of the Adult Skills and Community Learning Service, emphasizing the importance of skills for future opportunities in Barnsley.
• Community Clean-Up Events: Councillor Frost and Councillor Interjecting praised community efforts in cleaning up areas like Wombwell Woods and Brampton Canal, organized by Andrea Walker.

Questions and Answers

Councillors raised several questions, including:

• Hospital Park and Ride Feasibility Study: Councillor Fielding asked about the publication of the study. Councillor Higginbotham responded that the report is complete and will go through internal governance before being released.
• Damage to Grass Verges: Councillor Borkock inquired about damage caused by vehicles. Councillor Higginbotham referred to a previous response, emphasizing the need for community cooperation.
• Wildflower Areas: Councillor Fielding questioned the state of the wildflower area in Penny Pie Park. Councillor Higginbotham listed the diverse plant species present and explained the maintenance strategy.
• Safety at Doddath High Street Crossroads: Councillor Fielding expressed concerns about safety. Councillor Higginbotham explained that the site does not meet the criteria for immediate road safety measures based on collision data.

Other Business

• South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner: Councillor Hunt criticized Mayor Oliver Coppard for canceling a meeting, delaying scrutiny of his role as Police and Crime Commissioner.
• South Yorkshire Pensions Authority and Fire and Rescue Authority: No comments were made on these items.

The meeting concluded with a vote on the amended motion regarding the two-child benefit cap, which was passed unanimously. The Mayor thanked everyone for their participation and closed the meeting.