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Cabinet - Wednesday, 20th March, 2024 5.00 pm

March 20, 2024 View on council website Watch video of meeting
AI Generated

Summary

The council meeting focused on various administrative and policy issues, including property management, tenant engagement, and housing compliance. Key decisions were made regarding the disposal of properties, updates to tenant engagement strategies, and the approval of housing compliance policies.

  1. Disposal of South Bank, Stone Street Property: The council decided to sell a property not needed for the Otterpool project. The property was initially bought to assist residents but is now deemed surplus. The decision was made to recoup costs without significant loss. The council expressed a mix of disappointment and practical necessity in selling the property.

  2. Highview, Moat Farm Road Property Sale: After failing to deliver an affordable housing project due to economic constraints, the council resolved to sell the Highview property to a third party. The project was initially intended to be a 100% affordable housing scheme but was halted due to high construction costs and financial pressures. The decision allows the council to recover most of its costs and still contributes to housing needs through a third-party developer.

  3. Tenant Engagement Strategy Update: The council approved an updated tenant engagement strategy extending to 2030, reflecting changes in policy and legislation. The strategy aims to enhance tenant influence on council services. The discussion highlighted the importance of ongoing tenant feedback and the integration of performance monitoring to ensure service effectiveness.

  4. Housing Compliance Policies on Legionella and Lift Safety: Updated policies for managing Legionella and lift safety in council properties were approved. These updates ensure compliance with new regulations and maintain high safety standards. The council emphasized the importance of adhering to evolving safety standards to protect residents.

  5. Quarter Three Performance Report: The council reviewed and discussed the performance report, noting improvements and addressing areas of concern such as ICO breaches and environmental volunteer events. The discussion also covered the financial aspects and operational successes, reflecting a commitment to transparency and continuous improvement.

The meeting was marked by a pragmatic approach to property management and a strong focus on regulatory compliance and tenant engagement. The decisions made were largely influenced by financial considerations and legal obligations, with a clear intent to maintain or improve service quality and safety.

Attendees

Michael Bailey
Andy Blaszkowicz
Gavin Edwards
Jonathan Hicks
Ola Owolabi
Susan Priest
Profile image for CouncillorGary Fuller
Councillor Gary Fuller  Liberal Democrats •  Sandgate and West Folkestone Ward
Profile image for CouncillorJeremy Speakman
Councillor Jeremy Speakman  Green •  Hythe Rural Ward
Profile image for CouncillorMike Blakemore
Councillor Mike Blakemore  Green •  Cheriton Ward
Profile image for CouncillorStephen Scoffham
Councillor Stephen Scoffham  Green •  North Downs East Ward
Profile image for CouncillorPolly Blakemore
Councillor Polly Blakemore  Green •  Cheriton Ward
Profile image for CouncillorTim Prater
Councillor Tim Prater  Leader of the Liberal Democrat and Independent Group •  Liberal Democrats •  Sandgate and West Folkestone Ward
Profile image for CouncillorRebecca Shoob
Councillor Rebecca Shoob  Deputy Leader of the Green Group •  Green •  Cheriton Ward
Profile image for CouncillorJames Butcher
Councillor James Butcher  Green •  North Downs East Ward
Profile image for CouncillorJim Martin
Councillor Jim Martin  Leader of the Green Group •  Green •  Hythe Ward
Profile image for CouncillorRich Holgate
Councillor Rich Holgate  Green •  Hythe Ward
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