Summary of the meeting:

The meeting covered a range of topics including accessibility of council information, carbon impact of international travel, international visits, retrofit strategy, strategic investment fund, women's safety in public places, and internal audit updates. Key decisions were made on policies and amendments, with significant discussions on the ethical implications of advertising and sponsorship, and the importance of transparency and community engagement in council decisions.

Accessibility of Council Information

• The council discussed the need for a full accessibility scoping exercise to ensure all information is accessible to people with disabilities.
• Plans to work with disabled people's organizations were mentioned.
• The council aims to improve social media accessibility and ensure all council websites meet accessibility standards.

Carbon Impact of International Travel

• The council reviewed the carbon impact of international travel and discussed measures to reduce unnecessary domestic flights.
• A report on the carbon impact of international travel will be integrated into the annual Council Emission Reduction Plan.

International Visits

• The council approved an international visit to Munich for the 75th-20th anniversary, with discussions on the most sustainable travel options.
• The council also approved travel for the Taylor Swift concert in Paris to learn about event management.

Retrofit Strategy

• The council approved the retrofit strategy, emphasizing the integration of retrofit with asset management works.
• The council will monitor significant changes to the retrofit strategy and ensure transparency in project approvals.

Strategic Investment Fund

• The council discussed reallocating funds within the Strategic Investment Fund, with a focus on the Granton Waterfront project.
• A proposal for the allocation of unspent funds will be brought to the committee before the next budget setting process.

Women's Safety in Public Places

• The council reviewed the progress of the Women's Safety in Public Places Community Improvement Partnership.
• The council will continue to monitor and support initiatives to improve women's safety, including behavior change campaigns and environmental improvements.

Internal Audit Updates

• The council reviewed internal audit updates and agreed to monitor the delivery of key audit recommendations.
• The council emphasized the importance of addressing financial and operational risks identified in the audits.

Advertising and Sponsorship Policy

• The council updated its advertising and sponsorship policy to exclude high-carbon products and fossil fuel companies.
• Discussions included the ethical implications of advertising by arms companies and military organizations.
• The council aims to use advertising and sponsorship positively to promote local businesses and services.

Forced Marriage Policy Review

• The council reviewed and updated its forced marriage policy, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and accessibility of information in multiple languages.

Acknowledgements

• The council welcomed new members and acknowledged the contributions of outgoing members, including Andrew Field, who received thanks for his service over the past nine years.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency, community engagement, and the continuous improvement of council policies and practices.