This week, the North Kesteven council held two meetings. The most impactful discussions took place during the Culture and Leisure Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday 18 June 2024.

Key Discussions and Decisions

1. Advertising and Outreach for Leisure Facilities: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the effectiveness of advertising for the council's leisure facilities. Concerns were raised about the visibility of these advertisements, especially in rural areas. The council works with an external marketing provider, Big Wave, and has been using a mix of digital and physical advertising. However, the committee noted that more could be done to ensure that all residents are aware of the facilities available to them.

We work with an external marketing provider called Big Wave and they recommend a mix between digital and kind of physical advertising. - Meeting Transcript

1. Leisure SK Limited Performance: The committee reviewed the performance of Leisure SK Limited, the company managing the council's leisure services. The discussion highlighted both positive aspects, such as increased fitness and swimming memberships, and challenges, including a significant overspend on utilities. The committee emphasized the need for clear communication and collaboration between the council and Leisure SK to address these issues.

We believe that with some of the minor amendments that have been outlined, this document is fit for purpose. - Meeting Transcript

1. Play Area Strategy: The committee also discussed the draft play area strategy, which aims to ensure that the council's 38 play areas are well-maintained and provide high play value. The strategy includes prioritizing capital investment and working with external stakeholders to identify funding opportunities. The committee recommended the strategy for approval by the cabinet, with an action plan to be developed and presented at a future meeting.

The strategy will allow the council to prioritize those play areas which require capital investment and allow the council to continue working with external stakeholders to identify funding opportunities. - Meeting Transcript

Other Meetings

• Governance and Audit Committee on Wednesday 19 June 2024: No video broadcast available.

Themes and Implications

The themes discussed this week reflect ongoing efforts to balance regulatory oversight, community engagement, and financial management. The advertising and outreach discussion highlighted the council's commitment to ensuring that all residents are aware of the leisure facilities available to them, particularly in rural areas.

The performance review of Leisure SK Limited underscores the council's focus on transparency and accountability in managing its leisure services. The emphasis on clear communication and collaboration is crucial for addressing financial challenges and ensuring the successful operation of these services.

The play area strategy discussion revealed the council's dedication to providing high-quality recreational spaces for residents. The strategy's focus on prioritizing capital investment and working with external stakeholders indicates a proactive approach to maintaining and improving these play areas.

These decisions and their implications will be crucial to monitor as they unfold, particularly in terms of their impact on community well-being, financial stability, and the effective management of council services.

This week, the North Kesteven council held two meetings. The most impactful discussions took place during the Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday 04 June 2024.

Key Discussions and Decisions

1. Animal Welfare Policy: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the animal welfare policy. Public speaker Peter Bell raised concerns about the policy's treatment of individuals with previous convictions. He questioned whether the council would impose similar restrictions on other businesses requiring licenses. Heather Green from the council responded, clarifying that the policy aims to ensure animal welfare and is not intended to be discriminatory. She also noted that the policy had undergone legal review and was deemed fit for purpose. The committee ultimately recommended the policy for approval by the cabinet, with minor amendments to ensure its continued accuracy.

The purpose of animal licensing is to protect animals and to ensure their well-being as well as protecting both the public and those using licensed facilities. - Heather Green

1. Performance Against Corporate Plan: Councillor Philip Knolls presented a report on the council's performance against the corporate plan for 2020-2023. The report highlighted that six out of nine actions under the priority of a clean and sustainable environment were achieved. The construction of a new modern depot was noted as being behind schedule, but efforts are ongoing to bring it back on track. The committee emphasized the importance of transparency and timely updates on such projects.

We believe that with some of the minor amendments that have been outlined, this document is fit for purpose. - Heather Green

1. Waste Management and Recycling: Councillor Rhys Baker discussed the reintroduction of the contamination monitoring process for mixed dry recycling. The initial rollout faced challenges, including public backlash and operational issues. The council has since adopted a phased approach to address these challenges, focusing on education and gradual implementation. The committee stressed the importance of clear communication with residents to ensure the success of the recycling program.

If you're not sure, put it in your black bin. That is better for the environment than risking contaminating your silver stream. - Councillor Rhys Baker

Other Meetings

• Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 06 June 2024: No video broadcast available.

Themes and Implications

The themes discussed this week reflect ongoing efforts to balance regulatory oversight, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. The animal welfare policy discussion highlighted the council's commitment to ensuring ethical standards while addressing public concerns about fairness and discrimination.

The performance report against the corporate plan underscores the council's focus on transparency and accountability in project management. The emphasis on timely updates and clear communication is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the successful completion of key initiatives.

The waste management and recycling discussion revealed the complexities of implementing environmental policies. The council's phased approach and focus on education indicate a willingness to learn from past mistakes and adapt strategies to better serve the community.

These decisions and their implications will be crucial to monitor as they unfold, particularly in terms of their impact on community well-being, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance.

This week, the North Kesteven council held four meetings. The most impactful discussions took place during the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 14 May 2024.

Key Discussions and Decisions

1. Housing Stock Condition Survey Contract Award: Councillor Dukes presented a report recommending that the council enter into a contract with MPART Links Limited for stock condition surveys and energy performance certificates (EPCs) for the council's housing stock. The contract, valued at up to £281,000, spans two years with an option to extend for an additional two years. The council aims to ensure all residents have access to safe, good quality, sustainable housing. The recommendation was unanimously approved.

2. Tree and Woodlands Strategy 2024 to 2034: Councillor Baker introduced the strategy, emphasizing the need to increase tree canopy cover in Lincolnshire, which has one of the lowest levels in England. Developed with Treeconomics and involving extensive public consultation, the strategy received overwhelming public support, with 99% of respondents agreeing on the value of trees and woodlands. The strategy includes recruiting a dedicated tree project officer. The Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee endorsed the strategy, and it was unanimously approved by the Cabinet.

3. Cessation of the HelloSK App: The app, launched two years ago to support local businesses and high streets, failed to achieve expected revenue and user engagement. The Cabinet decided to discontinue the app and collaborate with Destination Lincolnshire to support tourism and local businesses through other means. The decision was unanimously approved.

4. Funding for Energy Efficiency Upgrades at Meres Leisure Centre: Councillor Stokes announced that the council secured £3.587 million from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme Phase 3C for energy efficiency upgrades at the Meres Leisure Centre. This funding will be used to install a new low-carbon heating system, reducing carbon emissions by over 550 tons per year. An additional £492,500 will come from the council's budget. This initiative supports the council's goal of reducing carbon emissions by at least 30% by 2030. The announcement was met with enthusiasm and appreciation for the hard work of the council staff involved.

Other Meetings

• UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund Board on Monday 13 May 2024: No video broadcast available.
• Grantham Town Council on Tuesday 14 May 2024: No video broadcast available.
• Planning Committee on Thursday 16 May 2024: Notes from this meeting have not yet been summarised.

Themes and Implications

The themes discussed this week reflect ongoing efforts to balance infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and financial management. The approval of the Housing Stock Condition Survey Contract and the Tree and Woodlands Strategy both underscore the council's commitment to improving living conditions and environmental health in the district.

The cessation of the HelloSK app highlights the challenges of digital initiatives aimed at local economic support, suggesting a need for more effective strategies in collaboration with established organizations like Destination Lincolnshire.

The significant funding secured for energy efficiency upgrades at the Meres Leisure Centre aligns with the council's broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing sustainability. This initiative not only addresses environmental concerns but also sets a precedent for future projects aimed at achieving the council's climate targets.

These decisions and their implications will be crucial to monitor as they unfold, particularly in terms of their impact on community well-being, environmental sustainability, and financial management.

This week, the North Kesteven council focused on economic and community development in its meetings, with the most significant discussions occurring during the Finance and Economic Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Wednesday 08 May 2024.

Key Discussions and Decisions

1. New Waste Depot Construction: The committee addressed the ongoing challenges with the new waste depot project, including concerns about cost overruns and delays. Despite these issues, the decision to proceed reflects a commitment to enhancing local infrastructure but also highlights potential risks associated with project management and financial control.

2. St Martin's Park Development: The council's pursuit of a £2.8 million grant to support the St Martin's Park project underscores the financial hurdles and the determination to push forward with redevelopment plans. This move, while risky, shows a proactive stance towards community improvement and urban redevelopment.

3. Economic Development Strategy: The discussion about the economic development strategy, particularly the errors and readability issues, points to a need for more rigorous review processes in council publications. The decision to continue with public consultation despite these issues indicates a desire to engage with the community but also suggests areas for improvement in document preparation and clarity.

4. East Midlands Building Control Consultancy: The review of this consultancy's performance, noting a decrease in income but stable market share, suggests that the council is maintaining a steady approach to building control services amidst economic challenges. The lack of major changes to the consultancy's management indicates satisfaction with its current operations, despite the financial downturn.

5. Grantham Future High Street Fund: The continuation of projects under this fund, despite some public opposition, highlights the council's focus on revitalizing Grantham's town center. This initiative is expected to enhance community spaces and stimulate economic activity, aligning with broader goals of urban renewal.

Themes and Implications

The discussions in this meeting echo themes we've seen before: the balancing act between advancing strategic projects and managing financial and operational risks. The council's decisions reflect a pattern of commitment to infrastructure and community development, even in the face of financial uncertainties and public skepticism.

The implications of these decisions are significant, particularly in terms of financial management and project execution. The council's approach to these projects will likely influence public perception and the overall success of its economic and community development objectives. As these projects progress, the effectiveness of the council's strategies and their impact on the community will be crucial to monitor.

This week, the North Kesteven council held two notable meetings. The most impactful was the Governance and Audit Committee meeting on Friday 26 April 2024, which centered on significant appointments to the board of Leisure SK Ltd, a company tasked with managing leisure services in the district.

Key Appointments and Their Implications

Three new board members were appointed, each for a six-month term, with specific goals to enhance financial oversight and strategic direction:

1. Councillor Tim Noles - Known for his governance skills, his appointment is aimed at strengthening board governance. However, concerns were raised about potential conflicts of interest due to his current cabinet position. As quoted from the meeting:

   Councillor Noles brings valuable directorial experience, but we must tread carefully regarding his cabinet responsibilities to avoid conflicts. - Meeting Transcript

2. Councillor Patsy Ellis - With a background in business, her role is expected to improve operational oversight. The decision was not without debate, reflecting ongoing concerns about the appropriateness of cabinet members on the board:

   Her business acumen is undeniable, yet the overlap with her cabinet duties could complicate governance processes. - Meeting Transcript

3. Mr. Paul Sutton - An interim finance professional whose expertise could be pivotal in addressing the financial challenges faced by Leisure SK Ltd. His appointment underscores a current prioritization of financial stability over broader strategic management:

   Paul's financial oversight is crucial, but we must also consider the broader strategic needs of our leisure services. - Meeting Transcript

Broader Themes and Concerns

The discussion during the meeting echoed a recurring theme we've observed: the tension between enhancing expertise on boards and managing potential conflicts of interest. This is particularly pertinent in the context of appointing council members to company boards, a practice that can bring valuable experience but also raises governance concerns.

The appointments are clearly aimed at addressing immediate financial and strategic challenges faced by Leisure SK Ltd. However, the council's focus on these areas, especially the heavy emphasis on financial expertise, suggests a reactive approach to deeper issues within the company. The balance of skills and the overall governance structure of Leisure SK Ltd were highlighted as areas needing future attention.

This meeting sets a foundational step for potential shifts in how the council manages and oversees its associated entities. The implications of these appointments, both in terms of company performance and governance integrity, will be critical to monitor in the coming months.