Decision details

To consider the business case for project resources to support the implementation of electoral arrangements, legislative changes and New Council arrangements in preparation of May 2023 District and Parish Elections.

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet agree and recommend to Full Council to:-

1.    Note the preparation of the significant programme of work underway to deliver the changes arising from the Electoral Review, the introduction of new election legislation and the 2023 Elections and supporting governance arrangements; and

2.    Note that the Section 151 Officer has exercised his authority to set aside financial regulations and establish a supplementary project budget, up to £177,000, to support urgent additional temporary resources necessary to deliver this extensive programme over the next two years.

REASONS FOR DECISION:

As set out in the report.

KEY DECISION:

Report to Cabinet and Full Council.

PORTFOLIO:

Leader / Finance, Investment and Corporate Services.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED/REJECTED:

As set out in the report.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST(S):

None.

DISCUSSION:

The Leader introduced the report and referred to the recent all Member Briefing on the Electoral Review and Elections Bill.  He placed on record his thanks to the team for progressing a complex and ambitious programme of work ahead of May 2023.  It was noted that the Elections Bill had now received Royal Assent.

One Member highlighted the importance of engaging with the public to explain the implementation of the Electoral Review and the changes arising from the Elections Bill.  Whilst the District Council had a Communications Plan, the Leader highlighted the important role that political parties could play in getting the message out to all communities in the lead up to May 2023.

All member briefing, Executive Management Team, the Leader and Portfolio Holder – Finance, Investment and Corporate Services