The Full Council meeting of Boston Borough Council was scheduled to discuss a range of important matters, including the review of HR policies, the adoption of a new Statement of Licensing Policy, and the allocation of seats on various committees and appointments to outside bodies.

Review of HR Policies

A key item on the agenda was the review of the council's Human Resources policies, specifically focusing on the Pensions and Pensions Discretions Policy. This policy, developed by Public Sector Partnership Services (PSPS) with input from officers and trade union representatives, aims to ensure consistency in HR policies across the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership. The policy outlines the council's approach to administering the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and the application of employer discretions, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and best practice. It details how the council will handle various pension-related decisions, including contributions to additional pension schemes, flexible retirement options, and the waiving of actuarial reductions, all while considering financial implications and operational feasibility.

Licensing Act 2003 - Statement of Licensing Policy

The council was scheduled to consider the adoption of its revised Statement of Licensing Policy under the Licensing Act 2003. This policy, which must be reviewed and published every five years, sets out the principles the council will apply when exercising its licensing functions to promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. The revised policy incorporates feedback from a public consultation, including suggestions from Lincolnshire Police regarding the Public Space Protection Order, age verification, and measures to address criminal activity. The policy aims to provide clarity to applicants and stakeholders on the council's expectations and decision-making processes.

Democratic Arrangements - Allocation of Seats Review and Appointments to Outside Bodies

The meeting was also set to address democratic arrangements, including a review of the allocation of seats on committees, panels, and working groups. This review, prompted by changes in political group membership, ensures adherence to legal requirements regarding political proportionality. Additionally, the council was scheduled to make appointments to various outside bodies for the 2025/26 civic year, filling vacancies that have arisen. These appointments include positions on the Black Sluice Internal Drainage Board, the Witham Fourth District Internal Drainage Board, and the Thomas Sanderson Trust.

Motions on Notice

A motion was scheduled for consideration regarding the membership of the Community Governance Review Working Group. The proposal was to increase the number of members on the group from five to seven and to appoint specific individuals to these new positions. The motion highlighted the group's important role in shaping local governance arrangements and aimed to ensure broader representation and participation.