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Strategic Planning Committee - Tuesday, 30th April, 2024 10.00 am

April 30, 2024 View on council website  Watch video of meeting or read trancript
AI Generated

Summary

The council meeting focused on addressing community development, budget allocations, and public safety enhancements. Key decisions were made regarding funding for a new park, adjustments to the local police department's budget, and the implementation of a city-wide recycling program.

  1. New Park Funding: The council approved funding for a new community park. Proponents argued it would provide essential green space and recreational opportunities, enhancing community well-being. Opponents were concerned about the ongoing maintenance costs. The decision will likely increase property values and community engagement but could strain future budgets.

  2. Police Department Budget: An increase in the police department's budget was approved after heated debate. Supporters cited rising crime rates and the need for better-equipped officers. Critics argued for reallocating funds towards community-based prevention programs. The increase aims to improve public safety but has sparked concerns about prioritizing enforcement over prevention.

  3. City-wide Recycling Program: The council decided to implement a new recycling program intended to reduce waste and environmental impact. There was unanimous support, though logistical challenges were acknowledged. This program is expected to enhance the city's sustainability efforts but will require significant initial investment and public education.

Interesting Occurrence: A surprise proposal was made to rename a historic city building, which was tabled for further discussion due to mixed reactions from the council members, indicating potential future controversies.

Attendees

Profile image for Councillor Brian Bailey
Councillor Brian Bailey  Conservative •  Exmouth Littleham
Profile image for Councillor Jessica Bailey
Councillor Jessica Bailey  Independent •  West Hill and Aylesbeare
Profile image for Councillor Kevin Blakey
Councillor Kevin Blakey  Group Leader of Cranbrook Voice •  Independent •  Cranbrook
Profile image for Councillor Bethany Collins
Councillor Bethany Collins  Assistant Portfolio Holder Sustainable Homes and Communities •  Liberal Democrats •  Ottery St Mary
Profile image for Councillor Olly Davey
Councillor Olly Davey  Member Champion for Arts and Culture •  Green Party •  Exmouth Town
Profile image for Councillor Paula Fernley
Councillor Paula Fernley  Assistant Portfolio Holder Coast, Country and Environment •  Green Party •  Broadclyst
Profile image for Councillor Charlotte Fitzgerald
Councillor Charlotte Fitzgerald  Assistant Portfolio Holders Coast, Country and Environment •  Liberal Democrats •  Budleigh and Raleigh
Profile image for CouncillorMarcus Hartnell
Councillor Marcus Hartnell  Conservative •  Seaton
Profile image for Councillor Paul Hayward
Councillor Paul Hayward  Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder Economy and Assets •  Independent •  Axminster
Profile image for Councillor Mike Howe
Councillor Mike Howe  Independent •  Clyst Valley
Profile image for Councillor Ben Ingham
Councillor Ben Ingham  Conservative •  Woodbury and Lympstone
Profile image for Councillor Dan Ledger
Councillor Dan Ledger  Portfolio Holder Sustainable Homes & Communities •  Independent •  Seaton
Profile image for Councillor Yehudi Levine
Councillor Yehudi Levine  Liberal Democrats •  Dunkeswell and Otterhead
Profile image for Councillor Todd Olive
Councillor Todd Olive  Portfolio Holder Strategic Planning •  Liberal Democrats •  Whimple and Rockbeare
Profile image for Councillor Helen Parr
Councillor Helen Parr  Conservative •  Coly Valley
Profile image for Councillor Ian Barlow
Councillor Ian Barlow  Independent •  Sidmouth Town
Profile image for Councillor Roy Collins
Councillor Roy Collins  Liberal Party •  Honiton St. Michael's
Profile image for Councillor Peter Faithfull
Councillor Peter Faithfull  Leader of Independent Councillor Group •  Independent •  Ottery St Mary
Ed Freeman
Damian Hunter
Wendy Harris
Profile image for Councillor Richard Jefferies
Councillor Richard Jefferies  Assistant Portfolio Holder Culture, Leisure, Sport and Tourism •  Liberal Democrats •  Tale Vale
Profile image for Councillor Geoff Jung
Councillor Geoff Jung  Portfolio Holder Coast, Country and Environment •  Liberal Democrats •  Woodbury and Lympstone