Issue - meetings

Report of the Assistant Director of Neighbourhoods attached.

RESOLVED (Unanimously):

1.    Cabinet approved an increase in the current Capital Budget provision from £30,000 to £37,000 and granted delegated authority to the Statutory Finance Officer to review all financial options.

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Paul Foster, presented a report of the Assistant Director of Neighbourhoods that sought approval to purchase a replacement civic car with a greener alternative vehicle.

Members welcomed this approach as it was seen to be setting a good example to residents with hybrids/electrical cars recognised as being better for the environment. Given that technology was rapidly progressing in this area, there was a view that it may be more beneficial in leasing a vehicle as opposed to buying one so that the Council could take advantage of the latest improvements and innovations over the coming years, and officers were requested to look at all options.

In response to a question from Councillor Colin Clark, the Leader confirmed that they would not be looking to outsource any part of the service.

It was proposed by Councillor Paul Foster, seconded by Councillor Matthew Tomlinson and

Decision made (Unanimously):

1.    Cabinet approved an increase in the current Capital Budget provision from £30,000 to £37,000 and granted delegated authority to the Statutory Finance Officer to review all financial options.

Reason(s) for decision:

The Council currently utilises a Rover 75 as the civic car which was first registered in 2005 and is now in excess of 14 years old and as time as gone on its servicing and repairs has become more difficult.

The Council recently introduced a new Air Quality Plan to address the increasing concerns relating to air quality across the Borough and actions within the Plan require the replacement of the Civic Car with an electric or low emission vehicle.

Alternative Option Considered and Rejected:

To keep the existing Civic Car would be in contravention of the Council’s Air Quality Plan.