Purpose

Approve the Member Empowerment
Policy

Content

RESOLVED
 
That the Executive:
 
a)     
Approved the implementation of the Ward Member
Empowerment Fund as shown at Appendix A.
 
b)     
Delegated authority to the Director of Law and
Governance (Monitoring Officer) to make any operational changes to
the Policy as and when required and review on an annual basis with
a copy published on the Council website.
 
 
Reason for Recommendations – The Member Empowerment Fund
was established in 2022 and since its inception the organisation
structure has changed and the number of Councillors has reduced
from 78 to 68, this has triggered a review of the policy. On review
of the policy elements were inconsistent with efficient practices
and the policy feedback from members and Officers indicated that
greater clarity could be given. The recommendation to adopt the
policy will ensure that the policy is fit for purpose to reflect
the organisation and members as well as allowing in year changes to
be made should this be required. To move to a ward-based approach,
allows the funding to be pooled and presents opportunities for
funding of larger projects that have a greater impact within the
relevant ward.
 
Alternative Options Considered
–

 
i)     
To continue with the status quo and operate the
scheme under the existing policy. However, the council could be
criticised for not responding to feedback or providing the clarity
needed for effective decision making therefore this option is not
recommended.

ii)   
To implement some of the proposed policy changes set
out in this report. However, this option is not recommended, as it
would reduce the ability to improve the effectiveness of the policy
for the council and applicants.