The Strategy & Resources Committee of Tandridge Council met on Thursday 27 June 2024 to discuss various significant topics, including the Future Tandridge Programme, the Corporate Plan, the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, and procurement updates. Key decisions were made to ensure the council's operations are streamlined and effective while considering the impact on residents.

Future Tandridge Programme

The committee reviewed the Future Tandridge Programme Update, which highlighted the achievements over the past two years and outlined the next steps. The programme aims to save £2 million over the next two years through four main themes: defining the council's role, talent attraction and retention, digital transformation, and incremental improvements. Ricky, the Transformation Programme Director, emphasised the importance of balancing core service delivery with the need for financial savings.

Corporate Plan

The draft Corporate Plan 2024-2028 was presented, focusing on protecting the environment, delivering affordable housing, and boosting the local economy. The plan, developed with stakeholder input and public consultation, aims to be a living document guiding the council's work. The committee approved the draft plan and recommended it to full council for adoption.

Council Tax Reduction Scheme

The committee discussed the Revised Council Tax Reduction Scheme, aiming to simplify the administration while minimising the impact on claimants. The benefits team was authorised to commence consultation while simultaneously modelling the scheme to minimise the impact on individuals. Officers will bring back proposals to use discretionary payment schemes and a corporate cost of living contingency to offset any remaining effects.

Procurement Update

An update on procurement was provided, including the expected changes due to the Procurement Act and performance against key performance indicators. The committee noted the Procurement update and the list of contract standing order waivers for 2023.

Scheme of Delegation and Contract Standing Orders

The committee approved amendments to the scheme of delegation and contract standing orders. This included raising the procurement threshold for certain items from £5,000 to £10,000 and ensuring that the committee has oversight of the annual pay award for officers, provided it is within the council's budget.

The meeting concluded with the committee noting the importance of involving all members in future decisions and ensuring transparency in the council's operations.