Issue - meetings

Report of the Shared Service Lead for Legal attached.

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Paul Foster, presented a report on the redrafted Shared Services Agreement which sought approval for signing.

The Agreement included sections on functions, involved employees and liability and included provisions for exit management. Three briefings had been held for members and the Agreement had been approved by the Shared Services Joint Committee and Full Council at Chorley Council.

The Leader of the Council commended the Agreement and thanked senior officers involved in the implementation of Shared Services between South Ribble and Chorley Councils.

Some concern with the role of and authority granted to the Shared Services Joint Committee in overseeing performance was expressed. Assurances were provided that the Joint Committee’s role would be to make recommendations on the performance management and progress of Shared Services to each authority, who retain sovereignty.

Queries were also raised regarding the issue of advance notification of substitutes on the Shared Services Joint Committee and voting in the event of a tie. The Leader of the Council disagreed that advance notice should be required and was of the opinion that allowing substitutes up until the beginning of the meeting would ensure that each authority was well-represented on the Joint Committee.

In response to a query around the need for a casting vote, it was clarified that such provision is not included within the Agreement and the Leader of the Council acknowledged that a need for a casting vote would indicate a breakdown in communication and significant challenges within the Joint Committee.

Councillor Damian Bretherton requested further clarification on the cost of implementing Shared Services. Members were advised that all costs had been factored into the budget as approved in February 2020 and would be reviewed annually. Costs are shared across all areas within Shared Services expect for Visitor Economy, as this is more established at Chorley Council.

It was proposed by the Leader of the Council, Councillor Paul Foster, seconded by the Deputy Leader of the Council, Councillor Mick Titherington, and subsequently

RESOLVED: (Unanimously)

That the draft Shared Services Agreement be approved for signing.