The Hillingdon Council Cabinet meeting on 27 June 2024 focused on the adoption of the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy, the review of the Draft Youth Justice Service Strategy for 2024-2029, and the monthly budget monitoring report. Key decisions included the approval of the flood risk strategy and the endorsement of the youth justice strategy for further consultation.

Local Flood Risk Management Strategy

The Cabinet approved the Hillingdon Local Flood Risk Management Strategy, which aims to mitigate flood risks in the borough. The strategy outlines measures to manage and reduce the impact of flooding on residents and infrastructure. Councillors discussed the importance of proactive flood management, especially in light of recent extreme weather events. One councillor remarked,

This strategy is crucial for protecting our communities from the increasing threat of flooding due to climate change.

The strategy includes detailed plans for improving drainage systems, enhancing flood defences, and increasing community awareness about flood risks.

Draft Youth Justice Service Strategy 2024-2029

The Cabinet reviewed the Draft Hillingdon Youth Justice Service Strategy 2024-2029, which aims to reduce youth offending and support young people in the criminal justice system. The strategy focuses on early intervention, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society. Councillors highlighted the need for a holistic approach that involves education, mental health services, and community support. The strategy was endorsed for further consultation, with one councillor stating,

We must ensure that our youth justice system is not just punitive but also rehabilitative, providing young people with the support they need to turn their lives around.

Budget Monitoring Report

The Cabinet discussed the Month 12 budget monitoring report, which provided an overview of the council's financial performance for the fiscal year. The report highlighted areas of overspending and underspending, with a particular focus on the impact of inflation and increased service demand. Councillors debated the need for stringent budget controls and the importance of maintaining essential services. One councillor noted,

While we must be fiscally responsible, we cannot compromise on the quality of services that our residents rely on.

The meeting concluded with the Cabinet acknowledging the need for ongoing financial vigilance and the importance of strategic planning to address future budgetary challenges.