This week, the Solihull Council held several important meetings, including the Licensing Sub-Committee, Resources & Delivering Value Scrutiny Board, Audit Committee, Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Board, and Cabinet. Here are the key highlights and educational insights from the most impactful meetings.

Resources & Delivering Value Scrutiny Board

The Resources & Delivering Value Scrutiny Board meeting on 17 June 2024 primarily focused on administrative tasks and planning for future work. Here are the key points discussed:

Work Programme and Financial Performance

The board discussed the work programme, noting that the workforce report has been scheduled for the December meeting. Councillors raised various points, including the importance of inviting the new mayor to address the council to understand his plans for Solihull. The quarterly financial performance report was also mentioned, with a focus on ensuring clarity between financial and fiscal performance.

Understanding Scrutiny Boards

Scrutiny boards play a crucial role in local government by holding the executive to account and ensuring transparency. They review policies, scrutinize decisions, and make recommendations to improve council services. The Resources & Delivering Value Scrutiny Board specifically focuses on financial performance, value for money, and resource allocation.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee on 18 June 2024 was significant for several reasons:

Appointment of Chairman and Vice Chairman

The meeting began with the appointment of Tony Brown as Chairman and Councillor Long as Vice Chairman. This is a standard procedure at the start of the municipal year to ensure leadership and direction for the committee.

Draft Annual Governance Statements

The committee reviewed the draft annual governance statements, which are crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability in the council's operations. These statements provide an overview of the council's governance framework, including internal controls, risk management, and financial management.

Treasury Management Activity

The committee also discussed the outturn for the treasury management activity for 2023-24. This included reviewing the council's borrowing and investment activities, ensuring that they align with the council's financial strategy and provide value for money.

Understanding Audit Committees

Audit committees are essential in local government for overseeing financial reporting, risk management, and internal controls. They ensure that the council's financial activities are conducted transparently and that public funds are used effectively.

Cabinet

The Cabinet meeting on 20 June 2024 covered several critical topics:

Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) Update

The MTFS update report highlighted an overall overspend of £8.149 million for the year 2023-24, with significant pressures in children's services and corporate areas. The council is actively working on a financial sustainability plan to address these challenges.

Understanding the MTFS

The MTFS is a key financial planning document that outlines the council's financial strategy over a medium-term period, typically three to five years. It includes projections of income and expenditure, identifies financial risks, and sets out plans to achieve a balanced budget.

Disposal of Council Land

The cabinet approved the disposal of two parcels of council land by leasehold to community organizations. This decision supports the council's strategy to engage with third-sector providers and ensure the maintenance of community facilities.

Understanding Council Land Disposal

Disposing of council land, often through leasehold arrangements, allows the council to support community projects and organizations. It ensures that land is used effectively to benefit the community while maintaining council oversight and control.

Conclusion

This week's meetings provided valuable insights into the council's financial management, governance, and community engagement strategies. The discussions on the MTFS, audit processes, and land disposal highlight the council's commitment to transparency, accountability, and supporting community initiatives. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of different committees and boards helps residents appreciate the complexities of local government and the efforts made to ensure effective service delivery.

Solihull Council Weekly Update: 1 June - 8 June 2024

Meetings Held This Week

1. CPH Resources Decision Session - Monday 03 June 2024
2. CPH Children and Education Decision Session - Monday 03 June 2024
3. CPH Skills, Employment & Inclusion Decision Session - Tuesday 04 June 2024
4. CPH Climate Change & Planning Decision Session - Wednesday 05 June 2024
5. CPH Housing Decision Session - Thursday 06 June 2024

CPH Resources Decision Session

The CPH Resources Decision Session on 3 June 2024 focused on the debt monitoring report for the year ending 31 March 2024. This session provided a high-level view of all debts owed to the council and the actions taken to recover them.

Debt Monitoring Report Highlights

• Council Tax Collection: The collection rate for 2023/24 was 97.25%, slightly behind the previous year. The council utilized temporary discretionary funding from the government to support families most in need.

• Business Rates Collection: The collection rate was 96.82%, slightly behind by 0.66%. Large business rate bills raised late in the year affected the collection rate. The council is actively pursuing recovery actions for these debts.

• Sundry Income Collection: The collection rate was 87.07%, ahead by 3.38% compared to the previous financial year.

• Housing Benefit Overpayments: The collection rate was 11.54% ahead of the target.

• Rent Collection: The collection rate was slightly behind, impacted by the cost of living pressures.

Key Discussions

Councillor Shevata raised a question about the business rates collection, specifically regarding the pre-COVID collection rate of 98%. The council explained that large assessments and changes in rateable values contributed to the lower collection rate. Efforts are ongoing to recover outstanding debts.

Councillor Adeyemo inquired about the size of the rent write-offs. The council clarified that these write-offs are for debts deemed irrecoverable or non-refundable, with a focus on debts under £10,000.

The session concluded with the approval of the recommendations, including the write-off of business rates and sundry income debts over £10,000, totaling £93,788.

CPH Children and Education Decision Session

The CPH Children and Education Decision Session on 3 June 2024 did not have a detailed transcript available.

CPH Skills, Employment & Inclusion Decision Session

The CPH Skills, Employment & Inclusion Decision Session on 4 June 2024 did not have a detailed transcript available.

CPH Climate Change & Planning Decision Session

The CPH Climate Change & Planning Decision Session on 5 June 2024 did not have a detailed transcript available.

CPH Housing Decision Session

The CPH Housing Decision Session on 6 June 2024 did not have a detailed transcript available.

Conclusion

This week's meetings focused on various aspects of council operations, with the most detailed discussion occurring during the CPH Resources Decision Session. The debt monitoring report highlighted the council's efforts to manage and recover outstanding debts, with specific attention to council tax, business rates, sundry income, housing benefit overpayments, and rent collection. The council continues to address financial challenges and support residents facing economic pressures.

Solihull Council Weekly Update: 25 May - 1 June 2024

Meetings Held This Week

1. Licensing Act Panel - Tuesday 28 May 2024
2. Licensing Sub-Committee - Tuesday 28 May 2024
3. Economic Development, Managed Growth and Skills Scrutiny Board - Wednesday 29 May 2024
4. Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Board - Thursday 30 May 2024

Economic Development, Managed Growth and Skills Scrutiny Board

The Economic Development, Managed Growth and Skills Scrutiny Board meeting on 29 May 2024 was significant for several reasons. The meeting began with the election of Councillor David Pinwell as Chairman and Councillor Fitter as Vice Chairman for the new municipal year. The main focus was on the cabinet portfolio holders' priorities for the year and the challenges facing the borough.

Cabinet Portfolio Holders' Priorities

Councillor Courts outlined the priorities for the Leader's portfolio, emphasizing the continuation of previous activities and measures to maintain Solihull's strong economic performance. Key projects include:

• Kingshurst Development: Councillor Courts highlighted the ongoing efforts to secure funding for the Kingshurst Phase Two project, which aims to establish a health and retail hub. He noted the challenges in obtaining funding due to Solihull's relatively low ranking in deprivation indices.

• Mel Square Redevelopment: This long-term project is set to begin Phase One within the next couple of years. Councillor Courts mentioned the higher-than-expected occupancy rates in Mel Square, which poses both a challenge and an opportunity for the redevelopment.

• Chelmsley Wood: The redevelopment of Chelmsley Wood has a different dynamic compared to Mel Square, requiring public funding and addressing ownership issues.

• Arden Cross: The development of the health tech campus in partnership with the University of Warwick is a key priority. Councillor Courts described it as one of the most exciting projects for the borough.

• Transport Strategy: The refreshed Solihull Connected Transport Strategy aims to improve rapid connectivity within key locations. Councillor Courts also mentioned the design work for the Balsall Common Relief Road as a central part of this year's plan.

Key Discussions and Questions

Several councillors raised important questions and concerns during the meeting:

• Balancing the Council Budget: Councillor Thomas questioned why balancing the council budget was not listed as a priority. Councillor Courts clarified that this falls under the resources portfolio and is crucial for the overall council strategy.

• Balsall Common Relief Road: Councillor Burrow and Councillor McLachlan raised concerns about the potential for induced demand and the impact on traffic volumes. Councillor Courts acknowledged the complexity of the project and the need for careful planning.

• Kingshurst Development Funding: Councillor McLachlan sought assurances about the funding for the Kingshurst development. Councillor Courts emphasized the council's commitment to the project and the ongoing efforts to secure funding from various sources.

• Chelmsley Wood Timeline: Councillor McLachlan asked about the timeline for the Chelmsley Wood redevelopment. Councillor Courts could not provide a specific timeline but assured that the council is determined to push forward with the project.

• Arden Cross Housing: Councillor McLachlan inquired about the housing plans for the Arden Cross site. Councillor Courts explained that the local plan includes 500 homes for the site, with potential for more in the future.

• Transport Connectivity: Councillor McLachlan highlighted the importance of improving cycling and walking infrastructure. Councillor Hawkins responded that the council is working on creating a network of routes to promote sustainable transport options.

Conclusion

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the work programme for the year, emphasizing the need for flexibility and the ability to adapt to emerging priorities. The board will continue to monitor the progress of key projects and ensure that the council's economic and growth strategies are effectively implemented.

Solihull Council Weekly Update: 18 May - 25 May 2024

Meetings Held This Week

1. Resources & Delivering Value Scrutiny Board - Monday 20 May 2024
2. Licensing Committee - Monday 20 May 2024
3. Children’s Services & Education Scrutiny Board - Tuesday 21 May 2024
4. Stronger Communities and Neighbourhood Services Scrutiny Board - Wednesday 22 May 2024
5. Cabinet - Thursday 23 May 2024 (Cancelled)

Stronger Communities and Neighbourhood Services Scrutiny Board

The Stronger Communities and Neighbourhood Services Scrutiny Board meeting on 22 May 2024 began with the election of Councillor Alan Thiena as Chairman and Councillor O'Nyons as Vice Chair for the new municipal year. Key discussions included cabinet portfolio priorities, community events, and local infrastructure and housing issues.

Cabinet Portfolio Priorities

Councillor Kajst outlined the priorities for the Communities portfolio, noting several key changes:

• Public health and leisure have moved to the Adult Social Care and Health portfolio under Councillor D'Sico.
• Tourism elements have been added to the portfolio.
• New priorities for regulatory services for 2023-2024.

Upcoming community events were highlighted, including the Solihull Together event on June 22nd and the Beacons of Light for D-Day at Almondon Park on June 6th.

Domestic Abuse Delivery Plan

Questions were raised about the Domestic Abuse Delivery Plan. Councillor Kajst mentioned that a strategy for 2025-2027 is being developed to refresh the current plan.

Faith Covenant

Councillor Carthier inquired about the Faith Covenant for 2024-2025. It was confirmed that it is on the scrutiny work plan for next year and will be consulted with the scrutiny board.

Bereavement Services

Concerns were raised by Councillor Donnelly about the condition of Woodlands Cemetery crematorium. Alison confirmed that upgrades are planned for the facilities and that a second cremator is being considered.

Cultural Recovery

Councillor Carthier praised the partnership with the Artrix Theatre, which allowed performances to continue despite the closure of the main house at the Core Theatre.

Environment and Infrastructure

In the absence of Councillor Hawkins, Sue Proctor presented the priorities for the Environment and Infrastructure portfolio. Key points included:

• Continued delivery of the local cycling and walking infrastructure.
• Maintenance issues, particularly regarding overgrown hedgerows and moss on shared spaces in Marston Green.

Housing

Satnam Core presented the priorities for the Housing portfolio in Councillor Parker's absence. Key challenges included:

• Compliance with the new Building Safety Act and Social Housing Regulation Act.
• Ensuring sufficient funding for long-term safety and maintenance of high-rise buildings.

Councillor Holt asked about the challenges related to high-rise residential buildings. Satnam Core explained the need for increased assurance and external validation to ensure compliance.

Councillor Carthier suggested encouraging private developers to build eco-friendly homes. It was clarified that this is driven by planning policy rather than the housing portfolio.

Work Programme

The work programme was discussed, focusing on flexibility and the ability to add or remove items as needed. Councillor Carthier asked about the timeline for implementing food waste collections, which is mandated by March 2026.

Apologies and Minutes

Apologies were received from Councillors Hawkins, Parker, and Laura McCarthy. The minutes of the last meeting were accepted as a true record.

Resources & Delivering Value Scrutiny Board

The Resources & Delivering Value Scrutiny Board meeting on 20 May 2024 focused on the election of the chairman and vice-chairman for the 2024-25 municipal year, followed by discussions on various administrative and strategic issues.

Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman

Mr. McCarthy was elected as the chairman, and Councillor Delaney was elected as the vice-chairman after a vote against Councillor Thompson.

Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Resources Priorities

Councillor Bob Slay outlined the priorities for the 2024-25 municipal year, including:

• Medium-Term Financial Strategy: The council approved a strategy for 2024-25 to 2026-27, though it is not balanced across all three years due to financial challenges, particularly in children's services.
• Corporate Asset Management: Focus on developing an asset strategy to optimize property use and minimize operating costs.
• Town Centre Projects: Updates on the redevelopment of MEL Square and other major projects like Eastgate and Westgate.
• Health and Safety: Continued focus on training delivery and risk assessments.
• Income and Awards: Efforts to manage debt levels and support residents with financial difficulties.
• Digital Strategy: Expansion of digital services and channels for residents.

Questions and Discussions

Councillor KA raised concerns about health and safety measures for employees working from home. It was confirmed that employees must complete display screen equipment assessments for both office and home setups.

Councillor Thomas questioned the financial strategy, seeking clarification on the deficit and plans to address it. Councillor Slay explained that the deficit was due to multiple factors, including children's services and inflation.

Councillor SRI inquired about the status of the Chelmsley Wood town centre plan, and it was noted that the scrutiny board could review it as part of their work program.

Work Plan for 2024-25

The board discussed the work plan, with suggestions to include regular updates on the new operating model and the impact of the change in leadership at the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Councillor KA expressed concerns about the number of meetings and suggested keeping the current schedule to avoid extending meetings too late into the evening.

Councillor KA also highlighted the need for a detailed review of the corporate properties and the digital strategy, suggesting that the council's website could be improved.

Employee Survey and Workforce Report

Councillor KA suggested an interim report on the outcomes of the employee survey and an update on sickness absence mid-year. Officers agreed to consider this and report back once the survey results were available.

Children’s Services & Education Scrutiny Board

The Children’s Services & Education Scrutiny Board meeting on 21 May 2024 began with the election of the chairman and vice chairman, with David Cole being elected as vice chairman. The main topics discussed included the enhancement of children's services, the SEND transformation program, and the recruitment and retention of social workers.

Enhancement of Children's Services

Councillor Grensall provided an overview of the improvement journey for children's services, emphasizing the importance of quality and consistency in social work practice. Key priorities included child protection, education, family hubs, emergency duty teams, corporate parenting, community parenting, and placements for children. Councillor Grensall highlighted the need for timely responses to families and children entering the service and the importance of hearing the voices of children. The council is working on opening new children's homes and recruiting more foster carers, with a goal of becoming a foster-friendly borough.

SEND Transformation Program

Councillor Grensall mentioned the recent funding approval for a new SEND school with 150 places at the Sans Souci site in Shirley. The program aims to ensure timely assessments for children with special educational needs and to find appropriate placements. The council is also focusing on supporting children who are homeschooled and ensuring they receive a proper education.

Recruitment and Retention of Social Workers

The recruitment and retention of social workers were discussed, with an emphasis on the importance of experienced social workers for managing complex cases. The council is addressing the variability in the quality of children's review minutes and plans by providing outcome-focused planning workshops for managers and reviewing officers. The performance report indicated improvements in various areas, including initial child protection conferences and re-referrals, but highlighted the need for further progress in reducing the number of children in care and improving workforce stability.

Other Topics

Other topics included the need for a glossary of terms in reports, the importance of involving the voice of the child in scrutiny, and the potential for joint scrutiny with other boards on issues such as domestic violence and mental health. The work plan for the year was discussed, with suggestions for prioritizing topics and ensuring meaningful discussions. The next meeting will focus on corporate parenting and the SEND transformation plan.

Licensing Committee

The Licensing Committee meeting on 20 May 2024 has not yet been summarised.

Cabinet

The Cabinet meeting scheduled for 23 May 2024 was cancelled.