The Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Watford Council discussed several key issues, including the performance and progress of council initiatives, statutory scrutiny guidance, and the executive decision progress report. The committee noted updates on various performance indicators and strategies, and agreed on actions to enhance scrutiny processes.

Performance and Progress Report - Q4 2023/24

The committee reviewed the Performance and Progress Report for Q4 2023/24, presented by the Associate Director of Customer and Corporate Services, the Delivery Support Lead, and the Intelligence, Performance and Improvement Lead. Key points discussed included:

• Graffiti Levels: The increase in graffiti and the timescales for its removal were highlighted. The committee requested further updates on this issue.
• Beryl Bikes: Concerns were raised about Beryl Bikes being left outside designated stands, tracked via GPS. The committee suggested reviewing the associated charges for this and considering it for the work programme, including contract costs and KPIs.
• Parking Penalty Charges: The committee discussed the level of parking penalties and the appeal process, noting that some residents without smartphones struggled with the electronic system. They recommended ensuring paper alternatives are accessible.
• Switchboard Contract: The process for awarding the new switchboard contract was reviewed. The new contract includes AI webchat functionality.
• Leisure Centre Throughput: There was an increase in throughput at Woodside and a decrease at Central leisure centre. Officers were asked to provide further explanations for these trends.
• Cultural Strategy: The committee expressed interest in measuring success in Watford’s culture. A new Cultural Strategy, planned for 2025, will include a delivery plan and metrics for success.
• Shopper Bus Initiative: The performance of the Shopper Bus initiative and its contract measures were discussed.
• Temporary Accommodation: The committee noted that performance indicators for temporary accommodation missed targets significantly, reflecting a national issue. Additional commentary on the context was requested.
• Child Poverty: Identified as an area of concern to be addressed in the 2024/25 work programme.

The committee resolved to note the progress updates related to the Council Plan 2022-26 and Delivery Plan 2022-24, the external key performance indicator results for Q4 2023/24, and the council’s key corporate strategies.

Statutory Scrutiny Guidance

The committee received a report on Statutory Scrutiny Guidance from the Senior Democratic Services Officer. Key actions proposed included:

• Raising the profile of scrutiny internally and for residents.
• Managing conflicts of interest in scrutiny contexts during future constitution reviews.
• Reminding members of the option to co-opt members or draw on technical advisors for reviews.
• Considering Audit Committee discussions on risk to inform scrutiny work programming.

The committee resolved to note the update and proposed actions.

Executive Decision Progress Report

The committee reviewed the Executive Decision Progress Report for 2024-25. It was noted that the report on the recycling service would be presented to the Cabinet in July. The committee resolved to note the current report.

Work Programme

The committee discussed the draft work programme for 2024/25. The Chair invited further suggestions, which included:

• Artificial intelligence.
• Child poverty.
• River health for the Colne and the Gade.
• Beryl Bikes.
• Temporary accommodation.
• Carpark maintenance by partners.

The committee resolved that the Chair would work with officers to incorporate these suggestions into the 2024/25 work programme.