Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Chief Executive.

Agreed:

RESOLVED that the allowances paid and expenses claimed by Members in 2024/25 be noted.

Reason for Decision: As set out in the report

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The Executive received the report which presented the allowances paid to Elected Members in 2024/25, in which the Council had a statutory obligation to publish each financial year. Particular reference was made to the Member expenses had come in under budget for 2024/25

During the discussion, Executive Members raised the following points and questions:-

·         Councillors did not receive a salary and the report showed the allowances and expenses received for Members in undertaking their role as a Councillor, which had come in under budget;

·         There had been savings in recent years, following COVID, where Member training and development could be done online. In previous years, there had been higher costs due to travelling and in person sessions, though some specific events remained in person; and

·         despite the reduced costs from travel and accommodation, Members continued to attend and engage in professional development training opportunities throughout the year, to support them in their role as a Councillor.

The Leader requested an extra column be added to future reports to separate the total allowances received from expenses incurred to prevent public misinterpretation of total amounts as personal income.

The Strategic Director for Corporate Resources confirmed that the current report was the same format as the officer note in the statement of accounts but agreed to check the legal basis for adding a total column for allowances.

An opposition group leader in speaking to report noted that despite being under budget, Councillors worked extended hours and had to cover costs for food ahead of late meetings. The Council no longer provided food and drinks at meetings and suggested using the under-budget funds to address this matter.

The Leader acknowledged the concerns raised and advised that he would discuss the matter with the Portfolio Holder and Chief Executive, noting the need to balance public perception with the practicalities of performing duties properly, especially for Councillors with medical conditions during long meetings.

The Leader moved the recommendations, which were seconded by Councillor Wright, voted upon, and CARRIED unanimously.

RESOLVED that the allowances paid and expenses claimed by Members in 2024/25 be noted.