The Combined Fire Authority for County Durham and Darlington met on Tuesday, 25 June 2024, to discuss several key issues, including the review of the constitution, members' allowances for 2024-25, and the Community Risk Management Plan 2024-27. Decisions were made on the representation on other bodies and the Local Government Association subscription.

Review of the Constitution

The Review of the Constitution was presented by the Chief Fire Officer and Clerk. The review aimed to ensure that the constitution remains fit for purpose and reflects current practices and legislative requirements. Key changes included updates to the delegation of powers and the introduction of new governance arrangements. The council approved the proposed changes after a detailed discussion on the necessity of modernising the governance framework.

Members' Allowances 2024-25

The council reviewed the Members' Allowances for 2024-25. The proposed allowances were based on recommendations from an independent remuneration panel. The council debated the fairness and adequacy of the allowances, considering the responsibilities and time commitments of the members. Ultimately, the proposed allowances were approved, with the council agreeing that they were in line with similar authorities and necessary to attract and retain capable members.

Community Risk Management Plan 2024-27

The Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) 2024-27 was discussed, focusing on the consultation results and the strategic priorities for the next three years. The CRMP aims to identify and mitigate risks within the community, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. The council highlighted the importance of community engagement and data-driven decision-making in developing the plan. The CRMP was approved, with an emphasis on continuous monitoring and adaptation to emerging risks.

Representation on Other Bodies

The council decided on its representation on other bodies. This included appointing members to various external organisations and committees to ensure that the council's interests are represented and that it remains informed about broader regional and national issues. The appointments were made based on members' expertise and availability, with the aim of fostering collaboration and information sharing.

Local Government Association Subscription

The council reviewed its Local Government Association (LGA) subscription. The LGA provides support, resources, and advocacy for local councils. The council discussed the benefits of continued membership, including access to training, policy advice, and a collective voice in national discussions. The decision was made to renew the subscription, recognising the value it brings to the council's operations and strategic objectives.

State of Fire Report

The State of Fire Report was presented, providing an overview of the performance and challenges faced by the fire service. The report highlighted areas of improvement, such as response times and community engagement, as well as ongoing challenges like resource constraints and increasing demand. The council acknowledged the efforts of the fire service and discussed strategies to address the identified challenges, including potential investments in technology and training.