The meeting primarily focused on performance metrics, lease agreements, and emergency response capabilities. Key topics included the performance dashboard for the Chief Executive's Department, lease agreements for UK Power Networks and Shelwich Primary School, and the renewal of a construction consultancy framework.

The performance dashboard for the Chief Executive's Department and Deputy Chief Executive's Department was discussed in detail. Mr. Wagner presented the third and final performance dashboard for the 2023/24 financial year, highlighting that 20 out of 27 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were rated green, two were amber, and five were red. The red indicators included the number of invoices received by accounts payable within 15 days, freedom of information requests completed within 20 days, subject access requests released within statutory timescales, complete response to marketing and resident experience within timescale, and rent due to KCC outstanding over 60 days. Mr. Coop expressed concerns about the declining performance in GL02 and GL03, emphasizing the need for solutions rather than just identifying problems. Mr. Jeffrey explained the increasing volume and complexity of FOI and subject access requests, attributing the delays to resource constraints and the complexity of the requests. Mr. Dawkins raised concerns about the increasing number of FOIs due to upcoming savings and cuts, questioning whether the capacity to handle these requests would be increased. Mr. Jeffrey assured that the council is looking at ways to improve processes and sharpen accountability.

The committee also discussed the lease agreement with UK Power Networks for a new substation at a school. The lease is for 20 years and will facilitate the relocation of the substation to allow for the extension or demolition of an existing building. The school will benefit from this arrangement as it will enable the construction of a new building and improve health and safety by relocating the substation to a safer area. Dr. Sullivan inquired whether the school would receive any direct benefit to their bills, to which it was clarified that the benefit would be in terms of development opportunities and health and safety improvements.

The renewal of a lease for Shelwich Primary School was also discussed. The proposal is to grant a long lease to the Academy Trust for the development of a new education building. Local member Mr. Human and Mr. Hook supported the proposal, highlighting the positive impact on early years places and the investment made by the Academy Trust.

The committee considered the implementation of an independent construction consultancy services framework. Dr. Sullivan raised concerns about the complexity of the process and the potential for disputes between different contractors. The officers assured that robust processes are in place to manage these issues and that legal action would be taken if necessary.

Finally, the committee discussed the emergency response capabilities in the event of a marine pollution incident. Mr. Jeffrey explained that while KCC has no statutory responsibility for responding to tier two events, the contract with Halderin Allen ensures that there are plans and providers in place should such an incident occur. Dr. Sullivan raised concerns about the potential impact of wastewater and sewage discharges, to which it was clarified that the principle of polluter pays would apply, and costs would be recovered from the responsible parties.