The Standards Committee of Mid Devon Council met on 19 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including proposed amendments to the Council's Constitution, changes to the Policy Development Groups, and updates on complaints and motions. The committee made several decisions, notably on the amendments to the Constitution and the structure of Policy Development Groups.

Amendments to the Constitution

The committee reviewed a report from the Director of Legal, HR & Governance (Monitoring Officer) outlining proposed amendments to the Constitution. The Leader of the Council highlighted that the changes were based on recommendations from the Planning Advisory Service (PAS) and aimed to improve public engagement and transparency. Key amendments included:

• Public Question Time: Residents, electors, or business rate payers must submit written questions three clear working days before the meeting to ensure responses are available.
• Recording of Questions: The minutes will contain a condensed written record of public questions and statements, not verbatim.
• Notices of Meetings and Key Decisions: These must be posted at Phoenix House and on the Council's website.

The committee voted to approve these amendments, with some modifications, and delegated authority to the Monitoring Officer to make the necessary changes to the Constitution.

Changes to Policy Development Groups

The committee discussed a report from the District Solicitor and Monitoring Officer on proposed changes to the Policy Development Groups (PDGs). The Leader of the Council proposed the creation of a fifth PDG to align with the new Corporate Plan. The new PDGs would be:

• Planning, Environment & Sustainability
• Community, People & Equalities
• Homes
• Economy & Assets
• Service Delivery & Continuous Improvement

The committee approved the recommendation to Full Council to amend the Constitution to reflect these changes.

Public Questions and Statements

Several public questions were raised regarding the proposed changes to the Constitution, particularly the removal of public question time at Planning Committee meetings. The Leader of the Council assured that public engagement would not be restricted and that the amendments aimed to streamline the process and ensure timely responses.

Nick Quinn, Robert Furmedge, Roger Cashmore, Goff Welchman, Barry Warren, Paul Elstone, Andy Perris, Tim Bridger, and Louise Doyle were among the members of the public who raised concerns. They emphasised the importance of transparency and public participation in Council meetings.

Complaints Update

The Director of Legal, HR & Governance (Monitoring Officer) provided a verbal update on complaints received. One formal complaint about a District Councillor regarding respect was noted.

Book of Motions

The Democratic Services Manager provided an update on the Book of Motions, highlighting efforts to make it more accessible on the Council's website and to include updates following the outcomes of motions.

Identification of Items for the Next Meeting

The committee requested that the following items be included in the agenda for the next meeting:

• Code of Conduct Complaint Appeal Procedure and Guide to making a complaint about a Councillor review.
• The use of language in the Constitution, such as the term Chairman.

For more details, you can refer to the printed minutes of the meeting.