Kent County Council held two meetings in the last week. The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) met on Friday 28 June 2024 and the Pension Fund Committee met on Thursday 27 June 2024. The Kent Flood Risk and Water Management Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday 26 June 2024 was postponed.

Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport)

The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) considered an appeal against a decision to refuse a Hackney Carriage Driver's Licence. The panel overturned the original decision and granted the licence.

Applications for Hackney Carriage Driver's Licences are made under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976. ¹ The applicant, a Mr Singh, had his application refused due to concerns about an incident in 2016 where he was convicted of causing death by careless driving.

Whilst the Committee acknowledge that Mr Singh was convicted of causing death by careless driving in 2016, they also note that he has not had any other motoring convictions before or since this incident.

The panel heard that Mr Singh had demonstrated remorse for the incident and had completed a driver retraining course. They also considered character references provided by Mr Singh, including one from a driving instructor and one from a serving police officer.

The Committee were particularly persuaded by Mr Singh’s contrition and the clear remorse he demonstrated throughout the hearing.

The Committee also considered the character references from [REDACTED] and [REDACTED].

The panel decided to grant Mr Singh a licence.

Pension Fund Committee

The Pension Fund Committee met to discuss a range of issues relating to the Kent Pension Fund. The committee received a report on the administration of the fund, and heard an update on the work of the Pension Board. They also discussed the recruitment of new staff and the impact of the new MyPensionOnline system.

Pensions Administration

Emma Green, Senior Pensions Programme Manager, told the committee that the volume of cases being handled by the team remained high but that average performance had increased from 79% to 85%. The meeting heard that the overseas proof of life verification project had been completed. This project required the pensions team to contact around 900 members of the pension scheme who live overseas. Nick Buckland, Head of Pensions and Treasury, explained that around 60 people had not responded to the attempt to contact them, and that those people's pensions had been suspended:

So what that means is that the ones that haven't responded to us have been suspended. We have sent emails to them, we've sent letters to them and we've also put a little note on their payslip in April. The number we have suspended is around 60 and that means that they won't get their payments currently but when we do hear from them they'll get what they wrote and previous.

Pension Board Update

The committee received an update on the work of the Pension Board from Robert Thomas, Chair of the Pension Board.

Mr Thomas explained that the board had discussed a benchmarking assessment of the Fund's administration that had been carried out by CEM. CEM found that the Fund provided good value for money, but identified some areas for improvement. The Board will receive a further assessment from CEM later in the year.

Responsible Investment Update

The meeting was told that officers were working to update the Responsible Investment policy to reflect the values identified by members in a workshop held in February 2024. Those values are: climate and nature, clean energy, affordable housing and responsible consumption. Readers may recall that this workshop was discussed in a previous email.

The Responsible Investment policy has been a long-running area of interest for the Pension Fund Committee, who are ultimately responsible for ensuring that the fund's investments are made in a way that is consistent with the best interests of the scheme's members and employers.

In previous years, the committee has faced criticism from some quarters for its investments in companies that are seen as being harmful to the environment. In 2022, for example, the committee was criticised for its investments in fossil fuel companies. The committee has also been criticised for its lack of investment in renewable energy.

In recent years, the committee has taken steps to address these concerns. In 2023, the committee adopted a new responsible investment policy that commits the fund to investing in a way that is consistent with the Paris Agreement on climate change. The committee has also increased its investments in renewable energy.

The meeting heard that an unnamed investment manager had failed to report their voting decisions between August 2023 and January 2024. The manager told officers that it had been an 'operational failure' and that measures had been put in place to prevent it from happening again. This is not the first time that the committee has received a report of this nature. In 2022, the committee was told that another investment manager had failed to report their voting decisions for a period of six months. The committee will be keen to ensure that this does not happen again.

This past week, Kent Council held several meetings, with significant discussions and decisions that could impact the council's financial stability and service delivery. Here’s a detailed look at what transpired:

1. Cabinet (Thursday 20 June 2024): The Cabinet meeting was a critical session, focusing on the council's financial performance for the 2023-24 fiscal year. Here are the key takeaways:

• Revenue and Capital Budget Monitoring Report: The council reported a revenue overspend of £12.4 million, which includes roll-forward requests of £2.8 million. This overspend is after accounting for a £12 million contingency in the budget. Significant overspends were noted in adult social care (£32.6 million) and children's services (£26.6 million). The council plans to fund the overspend from the budget stabilization reserve, which will weaken financial resilience if further overspends are not mitigated.

• Capital Program: The total capital program for the year was £216.4 million, representing 52.9% of the approved budget. This resulted in a £192.7 million underspend, split into a real variance of £5.5 million and £198 million of rephrasing. The council recommended rolling forward the rephrasing into future years.

• Financial Resilience: The discussion emphasized the need to ensure financial sustainability by delivering savings programs, particularly in adult social care and children's services. The council acknowledged the pressures in these areas and the importance of breaking the growth rate to avoid further financial strain.

• Special Educational Needs (SEN): The financial position of children's services, especially in education, highlighted the importance of ongoing reforms in the SEN arena. The council is working with the Department for Education and NHS England to bring spending back into balance and target resources effectively.

• Recommendations: The Cabinet agreed to several recommendations, including rolling forward funds, drawing down from reserves, and reviewing the capital program. These decisions aim to address the financial challenges and ensure the council's long-term sustainability.

The meeting underscored the significant financial pressures facing the council and the need for strategic planning and effective management to navigate these challenges.

1. Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (Tuesday 18 June 2024): This meeting was postponed, and no further details are available.

2. Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) (Wednesday 19 June 2024): We have not been able to find a video broadcast of this meeting, and no further details are available.

This week’s meetings have focused primarily on the council's financial performance and the challenges in managing overspends in critical service areas. The decisions made during the Cabinet meeting will have significant implications for the community, particularly in terms of financial sustainability and service delivery. As these themes continue to develop, their impact on Kent’s residents remains a critical area of focus.

This past week, Kent Council held several meetings, with significant discussions and decisions that could impact transportation, environmental initiatives, and governance. Here’s a detailed look at what transpired:

1. Environment & Transport Cabinet Committee (Tuesday 21 May 2024): This meeting covered a range of important topics, including transportation projects, pothole repairs, and the Kent Travel Saver Pass. Key points included:

• Transportation Projects: Updates were provided on the High Western maintenance contract and the review of joint transport boards. The council emphasized the importance of effective communication and strategic engagement to address transportation and highway-related challenges. Notably, the A29 Thanet Way is planned to reopen eight weeks early, which should improve road safety and stability.

• EU Entry-Exit System: The council is awaiting the government's reasonable worst-case scenario for the EU entry-exit system, with a tentative start date of October 6th. Ongoing work with the Home Office and Department for Transport aims to mitigate community impacts.

• Street Works and Pothole Repairs: High demand for street work permits and their impact on businesses and residents were discussed. The Pothole Blitz has made significant progress, with £4,592,895.16 spent, 2,992 potholes filled, and 86,154.37 square meters of patching completed.

• Personnel Changes: Several personnel changes were noted, including the early retirement of David Beaver and the appointment of Sue Reddick as the Head of Service for Waste and Circular Economy. Updated contact lists for members were emphasized to ensure efficient communication.

• Environmental Initiatives: Initiatives like No Mow May and the Kent Plan Tree, aiming to establish 1.5 million trees, were discussed. The repair, reuse, and upcycling map was highlighted to encourage sustainable practices.

• Kent Travel Saver Pass: The cost of the Kent Travel Saver Pass will increase from £450 to £550, with the low-income pass remaining at £120. The council acknowledged the financial burden on families but emphasized the necessity due to rising operator costs and the importance of maintaining the service.

• Contract Management: The road assets renewal contract was reviewed, emphasizing the need for best value and carbon reduction. The importance of scrutinizing contract prices to ensure sustainability and the potential for annual feedback to the committee on contract performance was discussed.

• Bus Service Improvement Plan: The Kent Bus Service Improvement Plan was discussed, highlighting the need for external funding to deliver proposed initiatives. The council emphasized the importance of sustaining and improving the bus network, fares, information, infrastructure, and the environment.

Overall, the meeting focused on transportation and environmental initiatives, personnel changes, and the financial challenges of maintaining essential services. The council emphasized the need for effective communication, strategic planning, and sustainable practices to address these challenges.

1. County Council (Thursday 23 May 2024): The Kent County Council held its annual general meeting, with several key discussions:

• Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman: Brian Sweetland was elected as the new chairman, and Alan Ridges as the vice-chairman. Both elections were uncontested.

• Pay Strategy: A proposal to improve the council's pay structure was presented by Roger Gough and Peter Oakford, addressing wage compression and ensuring staff reach the top of their grades more quickly. The proposal was unanimously agreed upon.

• Local Transport Plan Update: Neil Baker and David Robey discussed the progress of the local transport plan, which aims to improve transport infrastructure in Kent. The plan will go out for public consultation over the summer. Key points included the importance of rail connectivity, road maintenance, and active travel.

• Standards Update: Updates to the council's standards were presented, including separating bullying and harassment into distinct categories. The updates were unanimously agreed upon.

• Petitions Scheme: Changes to the council's petition scheme were proposed to make it easier for residents to bring petitions forward. The proposal was supported and agreed upon.

• Motion for Time-Limited Debate on SEND Provision: A motion for a short focused inquiry into SEND provision was proposed but ultimately rejected. The motion aimed to address the democratic deficit in public scrutiny of SEND services.

• Other Discussions: Tributes were paid to James Williams, Medway Council's director of public health, who recently passed away. The leader's report covered various topics, including local election results, financial updates, and the impact of the European entry/exit system on Kent. Members discussed the importance of public confidence in SEND services and the need for thorough scrutiny and improvement.

1. Selection and Member Services Committee (Thursday 23 May 2024): The notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

Several other meetings took place, but no video broadcasts or detailed summaries are available for the following:

• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Kent & Essex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Kent & Essex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)
• Unknown committee (Wednesday 22 May 2024)

This week’s meetings have focused on transportation and environmental initiatives, personnel changes, and governance. The council’s decisions on these matters will have significant implications for the community. As these themes continue to develop, their impact on Kent’s residents remains a critical area of focus.

This past week has seen Kent Council engage in several key discussions that could significantly impact public health, economic development, and education. Here’s a detailed look at what transpired:

1. Health Reform and Public Health Cabinet Committee (Tuesday 14 May 2024): The meeting began with tributes to the late Mr. James Williams, Director of Public Health for Medway. Dr. Ghosh, Mr. Watkins, and Mrs. Cole highlighted his significant contributions to public health.

Mr. Watkins provided updates on public health initiatives, emphasizing the importance of National Walking Month and additional MMR vaccine catch-up clinics due to a national rise in measles cases. Dr. Ghosh discussed the Better Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Fund and the award-winning Kent and Medway suicide prevention program.

The committee approved a 12-month extension of contracts with Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) and Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) to support the public health transformation program. This extension aims to manage workforce stability and align with new procurement legislation.

A performance management overview was presented, noting the need for more challenging key performance indicators (KPIs). The draft Kent and Medway Integrated Care Strategy Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy Delivery Plan was also discussed, with the committee supporting its continued development.

1. Growth, Economic Development and Communities Cabinet Committee (Tuesday 14 May 2024): The meeting covered a range of topics, including tributes to James Williams and Debbie Large, updates on Folkestone Library, and the Home Library Service. The Kent Community Safety Team held a multi-agency event on anti-social behavior, and the resilience and emergency planning service is preparing for new border checks.

Discussions on apprenticeships highlighted the need for better organization and communication to support small businesses. The No Use Empty scheme has brought 8,244 properties back into use, and the council plans to seek additional funding to expand the program.

The Kent Film Office continues to support film productions, bringing economic benefits to the county. The Project Gigabit broadband program received £112 million for broadband provision in Kent and Medway, focusing on areas not covered by industry-funded programs.

1. Policy and Resources Cabinet Committee (Wednesday 15 May 2024): The meeting focused on performance metrics, lease agreements, and emergency response capabilities. The performance dashboard for the Chief Executive's Department highlighted that 20 out of 27 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were rated green, with concerns raised about declining performance in some areas.

The committee discussed a lease agreement with UK Power Networks for a new substation at a school, which will facilitate the construction of a new building and improve health and safety. The renewal of a lease for Shelwich Primary School was also discussed, with support for the development of a new education building.

The implementation of an independent construction consultancy services framework was considered, with assurances that robust processes are in place to manage potential disputes. Emergency response capabilities in the event of a marine pollution incident were also discussed, emphasizing the principle of polluter pays.

1. Adult Social Care Cabinet Committee (Wednesday 15 May 2024): The meeting focused on updates and discussions regarding various services and policies in adult social care. Visits to service centers highlighted the range of activities and support provided.

Two significant proposals regarding changes to charging policies for adult social care were discussed and endorsed by a majority vote, despite concerns about their impact on vulnerable individuals. Performance updates revealed an increase in contacts, care needs assessments, and safeguarding concerns.

The council discussed upcoming contract renewals and extensions for various social care services, aiming to manage these contracts effectively while considering potential savings. Enhancements to self-directed support and direct payments were also explored.

1. Governance and Audit Committee (Thursday 16 May 2024): The public session of this meeting was brief, and the committee moved into a private session. No further details are available.

2. Children's, Young People and Education Cabinet Committee (Thursday 16 May 2024): The meeting discussed primary school placements, with nearly 99% of over 16,500 Kent applicants receiving one of their three named schools. School attendance levels are improving but remain below pre-COVID levels.

The success of the SCND information roadshows was highlighted, with plans to digitize the content to reach a wider audience. The Send Inquiry Hub has supported over 11,000 families, with 99.8% of queries resolved within five working days.

Significant developments regarding secondary school proposals on the Isle of Sheppy were announced, with two new academies to be established. Questions about the number of children missing education in the Dartford area were raised, with commitments to provide responses.

1. Personnel Committee (Thursday 16 May 2024): No video broadcast of this meeting is available.

This week’s meetings have covered a broad spectrum of issues, from public health and economic development to education and social care. The council’s decisions on extending public health contracts, supporting economic initiatives, and addressing school placements and attendance will have significant implications for the community. As these themes continue to develop, their impact on Kent’s residents remains a critical area of focus.

This past week has been a bustling period for Kent Council, with several committee meetings that could shape the future of our community services and governance. Here's a detailed look at what transpired:

1. Regulation Committee Member Panel (Monday 22 April 2024): The contents of this meeting remain undisclosed. No information is available about the discussions or decisions that took place, which raises questions about transparency in council operations.

2. Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (Tuesday 23 April 2024): This meeting was cancelled. The reasons for the cancellation have not been provided, which might concern those expecting discussions on critical health policies and oversight.

3. Scrutiny Committee (Wednesday 24 April 2024): A significant meeting where the future of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services was a hot topic. Here are the key takeaways:

• Reintegration of SEND Subcommittee: The committee decided to dissolve the SEND Subcommittee, integrating its responsibilities back into the main scrutiny committee. This decision was based on perceived inefficiencies and unclear outcomes from the subcommittee. While this aims to streamline efforts, it raises concerns about the focused attention on SEND issues.

• Financial Update Review: A discussion on the financial update revealed a projected significant overspend in adult social care and children's services. The committee emphasized the need for stringent budget controls to address financial sustainability.

• Safety Valve Agreement: The implications of the safety valve agreement on SEND services were debated. The discussion highlighted the complexity of balancing financial relief with sustainable service provision.

The week's meetings have set the stage for significant changes, particularly in how SEND issues are managed within the council. These decisions may streamline processes but also risk diluting the focus on specialized education needs, which could impact service quality and parental engagement. The financial challenges ahead also loom large, with the council needing to make tough decisions to ensure long-term sustainability. As these themes continue to develop, the implications for our community remain a critical area of focus.