Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Clare Cape, Christine Crisp, Stewart Dobson, Bill Douglas, Jose Green, Russell Hawker, John Smale and John Walsh.

To approve as a correct record and sign the minutes of the last meeting of Council held on 26 February 2019.

The minutes of the meeting held on 26 November 2019 were presented for consideration and it was,

Resolved:

That the minutes of the Council meeting held on 26 November 2019 be approved and signed as a true and correct record, subject to the inclusion of Cllr Nick Holder as being present at the meeting.

To receive any declarations of disclosable interests or dispensations granted by the Standards Committee.

Councillor Brian Dalton declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in the Budget in relation to the housing revenue account as he held a garage tenancy with the Council. Councillor Dalton indicated that he would withdraw from the meeting when a separate vote would be taken on the housing revenue account details.

Councillor Johnny Kidney declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in Item No. 12 – Wiltshire Housing Site Allocations Plan and stated that he would withdraw from the meeting for the duration of that item.

Through the Chair there were the following announcements:

1)    Events Attended by the Chairman from 26 November 2019 to 24 February 2020:

Friday, 6 December, 2019            County of Wiltshire Carol Service, Christ Church, Swindon.

Tuesday, 10 December, 2019      Staff Carol Service, Monkton Park, Chippenham.

Monday, 16 December, 2019       Festive coffee morning, hosted by the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Chairman’s room.

Thursday, 19 December, 2019     Staff Carol Service, The Atrium, County Hall.

Thursday, 19 December, 2019     South Wilts Grammar School Carol Service, Salisbury Cathedral.

Monday, 27 January, 2020           Holocaust Memorial Day flag lowering ceremony, County Hall.

Thursday, 6 February, 2020         Wiltshire College and University Centre Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony, Civic Centre, Trowbridge.

Sunday, 9 February, 2020            Mayor of Calne’s Civic Service, St. Mary’s Church, Calne.

Wednesday, 12 February, 2020   High Sheriff’s Great Bustard Drinks Reception, Showroom of Dick Lovatt Jaguar Landrover (Bath), Melksham. To celebrate the Great Bustard population reaching 100 in Wiltshire.

2)    Events Attended by the Vice-Chairman from 26 November 2019 to 24 February 2020:

Tuesday, 3 December, 2019        Mothers’ Union Annual Service, Salisbury Cathedral.

Monday, 3 February, 2020           LGBT flag raising ceremony, County Hall.

Wednesday, 12 February, 2020   High Sheriff’s Great Bustard Drinks Reception, Showroom of Dick Lovatt Jaguar Landrover (Bath), Melksham. To celebrate the Great Bustard population reaching 100 in Wiltshire.

Sunday, 16 February, 2020          Salisbury City Council Annual Charter Service.

3)    New Year Honours

The Chairman announced that a number of Wiltshire residents had received national recognition in Her Majesty’s New Year Honours’ list in January as follows:

OBEs had been awarded to:

·       Dr Norman Govan of Salisbury for Public Service.

·       Alison Brenchley of Calne for services to Financial Services and Diversity.

MBEs had been awarded to:

·       Elizabeth Beech of Warminster for services to Public Health.

·       Ludwig Macauley of Coombe Bissett for voluntary service to the community & the Firefighters’ Charity.

BEM’s had been awarded to:

·       John Parmitter of Malmesbury for services to the community in Lea.

·       Jeanne Bush of Chippenham for services to the community in Chippenham.

4)    Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics (STEAM) Fair

This event was being held in the Atrium, County Hall during the Council meeting and was to help inspire the next generation of innovators, creators and problem solvers. Pupils would have the opportunity to explore activities, stands and exhibits during the day.

5)    Fairtrade Fortnite

This would be held for the next two weeks. Fairtrade Town organisations across the County would be promoting the Fairtrade organisation and wide range of food, beverages and products available in support of this cause.

6)    Councillor Darren Henry

The Chairman noted that Darren Henry had resigned from the Council on 20 January 2020 following his recent election as Member of Parliament for Broxtowe. A by-election for the Till and Wylye Valley Division would take place on 10 March 2020.  On behalf of the Council the Chairman thanked Mr Henry for his service whilst a member of this Council since 2017 and wished him well in Parliament.

7)    Councillor Jo Trigg

The Chairman welcomed Councillor Jo Trigg to  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.

No petitions have been received for this meeting.

It was,

Resolved:

To note that no petitions had been received for presentation to the meeting.

A report is attached on petitions received since the last meeting of council.

It was reported that since the last meeting five petitions had been received by the Council. Actions in response to those petitions as set out in the appendix to the report were noted.

Resolved:

That Council notes the petitions received and the actions taken.  

The Council welcomes contributions from members of the public.

Statements

If you would like to make a statement at this meeting on any item on this agenda, please register to do so at least 10 minutes prior to the meeting. Up to 3 speakers are permitted to speak for up to 3 minutes each on any agenda item. Please contact the officer named above for any further clarification.

Questions

To receive any questions from members of the public  received in accordance with the constitution. Those wishing to ask questions are required to give notice of any such questions in writing to the officer named above (acting on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer) no later than 5pm on 18 February 2020 in order to receive a written response, and no later than 5pm on Thursday 20 February 2020 in order to receive a verbal response. Please contact the officer named on the first page of this agenda for further advice. Questions may be asked without notice if the Chairman decides that the matter is urgent.

Details of any questions received will be circulated to Councillors prior to the meeting and made available at the meeting and on the Council’s website.

A number of questions and statements by members of the public were received as follows:

·       Chris Caswill had submitted a question about the senior leadership structure to which a response had been provided as set out in the Summons.

·       Vicky Moore had submitted a question about climate emergency to which Councillor Clewer responded. A written response would be sent to Ms Moore, as attached to these minutes.

·       Russell Hughes had submitted a question about recycled plastic to which Councillor Wayman responded.  A written response would be sent to Mr Hughes, as attached to these minutes.

·       Russell Hughes had submitted a question about energy suppliers to which Councillor Blair-Pilling responded. A written response would be sent to Mr Hughes, as attached to these minutes.

·       Jo Ripley had submitted a question about green energy to which Councillor Blair-Pilling responded.  A written response would be sent to Ms Ripley, as attached to these minutes.

Marie Hillcoat, Mike Birkin, Bill Jarvis, Valerie Jarvis and Gary Mantle all made statements regarding aspects of the climate change emergency.

Graham Hill made a statement about the Housing Site Allocations Plan.

Further questions and statements were received under the relevant agenda items.

A report from Chief Executive Officers Alistair Cunningham and Terence Herbert.

The Chairman invited the Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement, Councillor Simon Jacobs, to present a report on the Treasury Management Strategy for 2020/2021.

Councillor Jacobs explained that the report, which had been endorsed by Cabinet on 4 February 2020, included:

·       Prudential and Treasury Indicators for the next three years

·       Debt management decisions required for 2020/2021 that did not feature within the Prudential or Treasury Indicators

·       Minimum Revenue Provision Policy 2020/2021

·       Annual Investment Strategy for 2020/2021

Councillor Jacobs proposed, seconded by Councillor Philip Whitehead, that the recommendations in the report be adopted.

Statements were then made received from members of the public. Christian Lange and Mel Moden made statements requesting that climate change be prioritised in Members’ consideration of the Council’s Financial Strategy and Core Policy.

Comments were then made on the proposals by Group Leaders as follows:

Councillor Philip Whitehead commended the Strategy and considered that it would enable better decision-making in the long term.

Councillor Ian Thorn considered that the Strategy would provide a clearer view on borrowing to address the climate emergency.

Councillor Ernie Clark supported the views expressed by Councillor Thorn.

Councillor Ricky Rogers welcomed the proposed Strategy and congratulated all those involved in drafting the proposals.

The Chairman then invited comments in debate.

Comments made in debate included that the proposals in the report were sensible and constructive, whilst recognising the Council was being urged to spend more on climate change issues. Councillor Christopher Devine considered that the proposals were sensible and constructive, whilst recognising that the Council was being urged to spend more on climate change. Other comments involved investment in towns as such as Trowbridge.

At the conclusion of debate, it was.

Resolved:

That Council:

a)       Adopt the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy (paragraph 32 – 34)

b)       Adopt the Prudential and Treasury Indicators (paragraphs 24 – 31, 40 – 48 and Appendix A)

c)       Adopt the Annual Investment Strategy (paragraph 77 onwards).

d)       Delegate to the Director of Finance and Procurement the authority to vary the amount of borrowing and other long-term liabilities within the Treasury Indicators for the Authorised Limit and the Operational Boundary

e)       Authorise the Director of Finance and Procurement to agree the restructuring of existing long-term loans where savings are achievable or to enhance the long-term portfolio

f)        Agree that short term cash surpluses and deficits continue to be managed through temporary loans, deposits and money market funds

g)       Agree that any surplus cash balances not required to cover borrowing are placed in the most appropriate specified or non-specified investments, particularly where this is more cost effective than short term deposits and delegate to the Director of Finance and Procurement the authority to select such funds

h)       Adopt the Third-Party Loans Policy (paragraph 93 and Appendix F)

In accordance with the Constitution this was a recorded vote.

Votes for the motion (78)

Votes against the motion (2)

Votes in abstention (1)

Details of each vote are attached to the minutes.

Details of the Budget Process are attached.

8a) Leader’s Budget Speech

8b) Relevant extract of the minutes of Cabinet held on 4 February 2020.

8c) The report of the Special Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee held on 28 January 2020.

8d) Financial Plan 2020/21. Report by the Chief Executive Officers can be accessed at this link: Budget Papers

The Chairman explained the various documents that had been circulated in connection with Council’s consideration of this item, and the procedure for debate.

He then called upon Councillor Philip Whitehead, Leader of the Council, to present his budget speech.

Councillor Whitehead explained that Wiltshire Council in line with Central Government and other bodies was experiencing a time of sizable change especially during the last 12 months. Wiltshire had developed three wholly owned development companies in development, housing and energy which would generate significant sums of money needed elsewhere to help balance the Council’s budget.

He explained that a new staffing structure at tier 1 had been introduced by removing the three executive director posts and replacing them with two chief executive officer posts, responsible for people and place.  The reason for this was to introduce a more strategic role at the most senior staffing level, with the new chief executive officers emphasising working with towns, parishes and other partners.

Councillor Whitehead further explained that there were a number of important changes and challenges facing the Council including climate change, developments on information technology, responsibility for the welfare of residents of Wiltshire and protecting the elderly and vulnerable, the demand for which were increasing. The lack of proposed amendments to the budget was also noted and he strongly urged all Members to support the most vulnerable and others by approving the budget.

The Chairman then invited Councillor Simon Jacobs, Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement to present the Budget. He explained that there had been a wide approach in preparing the Budget and placed on record his thanks to Deborah Hindson, Interim Director of Finance and Procurement, and her team for all the detailed work they had undertaken.

Councillor Jacobs reported on the process that had been undertaken to consult on the Budget, which had been open and transparent. The proposals had been discussed in detail with the public, the Financial Planning Task Group and the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee prior to its consideration by Cabinet and now Council.

He explained that the Council’s strategic aims and priorities drove the medium-term financial planning process, with changes in resource allocation determined in accordance with policies and priorities of the Council’s 2017-27 Business Plan. It was important to ensure a strong sustainable financial base during the current challenging times.

The key changes reflected the revised forecast for the increasing demand for care for the vulnerable, which included adults and children with complex care needs. He stated there was an urgent need for the Government to determine a new fairer funding settlement for councils. He stated that the Council was currently in a good position to set a strong Financial Plan for the years ahead.

Councillor Jacobs therefore proposed the recommendations as set out in the report be adopted, this being seconded by Councillor Whitehead. 

Questions and statements were then received from members of the public.

Harriet James asked a question about the climate change implications of the Council’s Financial Plan Update 2020/21  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.

A report from Chief Executive Officers Alistair Cunningham and Terence Herbert.

The Chairman invited the Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement, Councillor Simon Jacobs, to present a report on the Capital Strategy and Programme 2020/21 and projections to 2029/30.

The strategy set out the framework for resourcing priorities for capital investment, level and affordability of borrowing and risk appetite and aligned to the Treasury Management Strategy.

Approximately 900m was planned to be spent on assets and infrastructure over 10 years, and lists of approved schemes and potential schemes provided. Schemes were funded by capital receipts, borrowing or government grants. Examples included regeneration of the Maltings in Salisbury, highways maintenance, special schools, and council house building.

Councillor Jacobs proposed, seconded by Councillor Philip Whitehead, that the recommendations in the report be adopted.

Statements were then made received from members of the public. Adrian Temple-Brown made a statement regarding the council’s strategies, carbon dioxide emissions and impacts of policies on growing the economy. A statement was read on behalf of Katherine Wade regarding the Climate Emergency and the council’s reaction to it.

Comments were then made on the proposals by Group Leaders as follows:

Councillor Philip Whitehead stated the Council’s Business Plan was in the process of being updated, but that the Capital Strategy Programme was about setting objectives and priorities, and that specific projects would be delivered throughout the year.

Councillor Ian Thorn endorsed the public comments and documents needed to be clear on how proposals would assist in combating the Climate Emergency considered that the Strategy would provide a clearer view on borrowing to address the climate emergency.

The Chairman then invited comments in debate.

There was a comment that the council was not responding sufficiently to the climate emergency.

Councillor Jacobs described how the new Head of Carbon Reduction would be responsible for developing ideas to reduce Carbon emissions, but that the council was also ensuring a balanced budget whilst delivering its statutory services and balancing where they could implement reduction methods and proposals.

At the conclusion of debate, it was.

Resolved:

That Council:

a) Adopts the Capital Strategy 2020/2021

b) Approves the Capital Programme 2020/2021-2029/2030

c) Adopts the non-financial investment indicators (paragraph 84)

In accordance with the Constitution this was a recorded vote.

Votes for the motion (70)

Votes against the motion (5)

Votes in abstention (0)

Details of each vote are attached to the minutes.

A report from Chief Executive Officers Alistair Cunningham and Terence Herbert.

The Chairman invited Councillor Simon Jacobs, Cabinet member for Finance, to present the report which detailed the various calculations in the prescribed format to enable Council to approve the council tax requirement for 2020/2021. The report had been updated in the Agenda Supplement. The 2% care levy in particular was noted, and that average town or parish council tax rises, set by town and parishes, was 9%.

Councillor Jacobs proposed, seconded by Councillor Philip Whitehead, that the

recommendations in the report be adopted.

Statements were then made received from members of the public. Rachel Burge made a statement regarding the climate emergency and the budget and future budget preparations.

Comments were then made on the proposals by Group Leaders as follows:

Councillor Ernie Clark made a comment about whether central government should consider capping available increases for town and parish councils, and noted that the Fire Authority did not have the same ability to increase its part of the precept as the Police.

The Chairman then invited comments in debate.

There were comments on the devolution of assets and services to town and parish councils increasing their responsibilities, and that the rise in council tax was above the level of inflation, and whilst supported the pressure on households was increasing. There were also comments on being understanding in cases of council tax enforcement. In response it was stated the council worked with Citizens Advice to assist people who were in arrears on their council tax, and assistance offered to help people get out of trouble where possible.

Councillor Jacobs reemphasised that approximately 25000 were eligible for council tax relief.

At the conclusion of debate, it was.

Resolved:

1.          It be noted that on 10 December 2019 the Council calculated:

(a)        the Council Tax Base 2020/2021 for the whole Wiltshire Council area as 187,935.69 [Item T in the formula in Section 31B(3) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, as amended (the "Act")] and,

(b)        for dwellings in those parts of its area to which a Parish precept relates as in the attached Appendix.

2.          Calculate that the Council Tax requirement for the Council’s own purposes for 2020/2021 (excluding parish precepts) is £284,722,570.

3.          That the following amounts be calculated for the year 2020/2021 in accordance with Sections 31 to 36 of the Act:

To consider the Pay Policy Statement as recommended by the Staffing Policy Committee at its meeting on 8 January 2020.

A report from Chief Executive Officers Alistair Cunningham and Terence Herbert, and relevant extract of the minutes of the Staffing Policy Committee are attached.

The Chairman invited Councillor Richard Clewer, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, to present the updated pay policy statement for 2020/2021. He noted the ratio between highest and lowest paid workers had narrowed.

Councillor Clewer proposed, seconded by the Councillor Stuart Wheeler, that the recommendations in the report be adopted.

A public statement was then received from Bonnie Jackson regarding climate change and no pay benefit in the policy statement to positively educe the carbon footprint of employees.

There were no comments from Group Leaders.

There being no further debate from Members, Councillor Clewer noted that there were policies to support staff working from home and car charging points were at council hubs.

Resolved:

To approve the updated Pay Policy Statement set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

In accordance with the Constitution this was a recorded vote.

Votes for the motion (77)

Votes against the motion (0)

Votes in abstention (0)

Details of each vote are attached to the minutes.

A report from the Chief Executive Officer- Place, Alistair Cunningham.

The Chairman invited the Cabinet Member for Spatial Planning, Development Management and Investment, Councillor Toby Sturgis, to present his report on the Wiltshire Housing Site Allocations Plan. He detailed the years of progression of the plan, noting policy papers and advice that had been received.

The purpose of the plan was to allocate sites for the delivery of Core Strategy housing requirements set by government, and review settlement boundaries. All statutory consultations had taken place including additional ones for modifications to the plan. The Inspector had made additional suggested modifications which were then consulted upon as well. On 23 January 2020 the Inspector’s report concluded that the plan was sound and met all requirements of national policy. The Council could therefore adopt the plan in full as modified by the Inspector, or not adopting it. If the plan were rejected the Council could not proceed to adoption, putting the Council at risk as there would be no sound plan in place.

Councillor Sturgis noted that objections had been received and considered by the Inspector but that all issues had been through the process and the Inspector had said it was a sound and compliant plan. Councillor Sturgis detailed the modifications including deletion of sites at Market Lavington and Crudwell, and inclusion of a small site in Salisbury. Criteria to be met through the development management process were included, and the settlement boundaries had been stated to be logical, justified and soundly bases, consistent with plan objectives.

Councillor Sturgis also noted that it was possible the government would change the rules in relation to planning generally in the future. He also thanked officers for their work after many changes to government guidance and court judgements. It was noted that additional housing was still required and that the Inspector had stated these would be met with windfall sites.

Councillor Sturgis moved the proposals set out in the report, seconded by Councillor Bridget Wayman.

A statement was then received from a member of the public. Lou Barry made a statement regarding the natural resources of Wiltshire and carbon and other impacts of construction. A question was also received from Andrew Nicholson as detailed in the Agenda Supplement regarding £75m in grant funding from Homes England for a Chippenham Relief Road.

Councillor Sturgis clarified that land does not have to be allocated for development to be eligible for such grant funding, and the scheme proposed could deliver both transport and housing benefits and so was deemed worthy of the award. The drawing down of the grant would depend upon securing necessary permissions, including planning.

A statement was also received from Simon Tesler in relation to proposed development at Southwick Court, Trowbridge, and that he did not believe full consideration had been given to appropriate issues in relation to the site.

Comments were then received from Group Leaders, as follows:

Councillor Philip Whitehead noted the proposal was the conclusion of a very lengthy process which had been through various examinations and consultations and that rejecting  ...  view the full minutes text for item 13.

A report from the Chief Executive Officer- Place, Alistair Cunningham.

The Chairman invited the Cabinet Member for Spatial Planning, Development Management and Investment, Councillor Toby Sturgis, to present his report on the Trowbridge Bat Mitigation Strategy Supplementary Planning Document. The strategy was necessary as a result of increased requirements in relation to habitat assessment. 

It was noted that the area around Trowbridge was home 14 of the 18 native species of bats in the UK, and delivery of further planned growth in the area depended on protection of the bat population. The mitigation strategy followed the preparation process set out in legislation for supplementary planning documentation including consultation, and the Inspector agreed the strategy was prepared in a robust manner. Revisions to certain table was set out in the report.

Councillor Sturgis moved the proposals set out in the report, seconded by Councillor Bridget Wayman.

A statement was then received from a member of the public. Lou Barry made a statement suggesting there were scientific doubts that the mitigation strategy could protect the bat population adequately and development should not take place.

A statement was received from John Cox, stating that the West Wiltshire District Scouts had been seeking to undertake a significant tree planting project and had submitted a business case to the Council which would develop woodland to meet the aims of the bat mitigation strategy in a more cost-effective way, but that the report did not mention this proposal.

Comments were then received from Group Leaders, as follows:

Councillor Philip Whitehead stated officers would discuss options with Scouts to see what might be possible to work together. He emphasised that the document was a strategy and detail would be included in operational documents as necessary. He also noted that bat habitats included the movement of bats not just nesting sites, and difficulties where this crossed the A350.

Councillor Ian Thorn welcomed the strategy as good for the county and would support the proposal.

Councillor Ernie Clark stated some strategy was better than none, but that potential flaws needed to be investigated.

Councillor Ian McLennan on behalf of the Labour Group, supported the proposal.

The debate was then opened to Members.

Comments included that the strategy would have a significant ecological impact and much needed, as some stated bat activity appeared to have reduced in recent years.

Other comments included that they key would be implementation of the strategy, and detailed mitigation plans would be needed for any development in the area, with some concerns that developers had not always made mitigation plans in a timely manner. It was also suggested further support of green areas on the edge of town could have assisted the strategy, but were included in the Housing Sites Allocation Plan. There were also comments that there was a need to protect insect populations to support bats, with reference of pesticide use.

Councillor Sturgis responded to comments made during debate, including noting that a report would be produced when the strategy implementation was looked at by the Environment Select Committee.

It was then,

Resolved:  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.

A report from the Head of Paid Service / Director of HR&OD.

The Chairman invited the Leader of the Council, Councillor Philip Whitehead, to present his report on the changes to the Senior Leadership Structure and Designation of Statutory Officers.

Councillor Whitehead noted that as a result of the reorganisation of senior management statutory roles were required to be reallocated to the new positions, and these were set out in the report.

Councillor Whitehead moved the proposals set out in the report, seconded by Councillor Laura Mayes.

Statements were then received from members of the public. Mel Moden delivered a statement on senior officer appointments relating to waste management, risk management and others in the context of responding to the climate emergency.

No comments were received in debate, and it was then,

Resolved:

That Council:

a)              Approve the designation of statutory functions as follows:

i.                           Director of Children’s Services (DCS) to the newly created post of Director of Children’s Services

ii.                         Returning Officer (RO) and Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) to the Chief Executive Officer – People

b)              Note the appointment of an interim Director of Adult Social Services (DASS) pending further review of where this will sit in the structure by the Chief Executive Officers

c)              Note that other designated statutory roles are unchanged as a result of the restructure and remain with existing postholders namely:

i.                           Director of Public Health (DPH) with the post of Director of Public Health

ii.                         Head of Paid Service with the post of Director of Human Resources and Organisational Development

iii.                       Monitoring Officer with the post of Director of Legal, Electoral and Registration

iv.                       Section 151 with the post of Director of Finance and Procurement

d)              Authorise the Monitoring Officer to make any consequential changes to the Constitution arising from the designation of the statutory functions outlined above.

In accordance with the Constitution this was a recorded vote.

Votes for the motion (62)

Votes against the motion (0)

Votes in abstention (0)

Details of each vote are attached to the minutes.

To consider the following notices of motions:

To consider the attached motion from Cllrs Brian Mathew and Ian Thorn.

At the invitation of the Chairman Councillor Brian Mathew, seconded by Councillor Ian Thorn, moved and presented his motion entitled ‘EU Citizens are welcome here’. The motion was concerned with communicating to and with EU citizens regarding the EU Settlement Scheme and proactively encouraging them to sign up, referencing concerns raised with him by some of his constituents. He noted efforts which had already been undertaken to advertise the scheme but suggested additional or further measures should be taken to maximise take up of the scheme. He asked Members to support the motion to demonstrate the Council’s support for the contributions of EU citizens to the county, and their encouragement for those who had not already signed up to the scheme to do so.

Councillor Philip Whitehead, Leader of the Council, responded to the motion. He stated he was very happy to support the motion, although he noted that many measures had been taken to communicate with EU citizens, and significant numbers had registered. He stated any additional measures that would further assist the message would be welcomed. He also noted that whilst the motion was specifically in relation to the EU Settlement Scheme, he hoped that Wiltshire would be a welcoming place for those from any other places who wished to make their lives in the county.

Following a vote, it was agreed that Council debate the motion.

Comments were then received from Group Leaders as follows:

Councillor Ian Thorn supported the motion, and emphasised it was important to support EU citizens at the time, and hoped the communication methods already employed could be expanded further to advance the message

Councillor Ernie Clark supported the motion, and endorsed comments about welcoming those from beyond the EU as well.

Councillor Ian McLennan on behalf of the Labour Group, supported the preceding comments.

Members then debated the motion.

Comments included that as much outreach as possible was needed to ensure everyone was aware of the settlement scheme, and there was support for making a gesture to demonstrate the Council’s support of its EU citizens, alongside advancing the communication of the Scheme. The support for citizens from other countries through military and other connections was noted, and some comments considered the motion could be expanded to be clear on support for all residents, but it was stated that the motion was in relation to the EU Settlement Scheme specifically, and did not indicate a lack of support for any other residents or particularism to another group, but was to ensure communication of that government scheme, which applied to a specific group whose arrangements were being affected by the process to leave the EU, was appropriately notified.

Other comments included noting the impact of social media on discussion of these issues, and the need for action to back up the supportive words at the meeting.

Responding to comments in debate, Councillor Mathew thanked the words in support of the motion including from the Leader.

It was then,

Resolved:

To support the motion as  ...  view the full minutes text for item 16a)

To consider the attached motion from Cllrs Ian Thorn and Ruth Hopkinson.

At the invitation of the Chairman Councillor Ian Thorn, seconded by Councillor Ruth Hopkinson, moved and presented his motion entitled ‘Herbicides’. The motion would be a measure in support of the environment in a sustainable and ecological way. He stated the motion did not seek a definite ban on glyphosate-based herbicides immediately but that a timetable to ensure alternatives was appropriate and beneficial.

Councillor Bridget Wayman, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Waste, responded to the motion. She stated that alternative herbicide methods were in operation and there was a recognition to move away from wholesale glyphosate treatments, and that in many cases weeds were physically removed from pavements, verges and other areas, as well as other methodologies. It was intended to purchase a tractor to enhance the physical removal service.

However, she also stated that weed control was a service delegated to a number of local councils, who were best placed to decide the best methods within the legally allowed applications permitted, placing barriers to local provision and priorities.  The council’s contractor ID Verde was trialling different weed removal opportunities and the Council would continue to review these, however glyphosate weed control remained an important tool in controlling urban weed growth. Although the Council minimised use of chemicals, which were more finely used, and future contracts would allow further engagement with the private sector to bring forward new and innovative weed control technologies, but there were occasions and some weeds that were very difficult to remove without use of glyphosate.

Following a vote, it was agreed that Council debate the motion.

Comments were then received from Group Leaders as follows:

Councillor Philip Whitehead noted that alternative methods of weed removal had bigger impacts regarding CO2 emissions and noted the comments of the Cabinet Member on minimising of glyphosate usage. It was legal and the most effective solution in some cases, and was much more sparingly used. He therefore proposed an amendment to the motion as he felt it was not yet possible to set a timetable for the end of its usage, although he supported the intention to do so when possible. The proposed amendment was as follows:

This Council calls on the administration to set out a plan that will actively consider alternatives and [insert]continually consider the possibility to end [end insert]a timetable for the end of the use of glyphosate-based herbicides

The movers of the motion, Councillors Thorn and Hopkinson, accepted the amendment, which became the substantive motion.

Councillor McLennan, on behalf of the Labour Group, supported the motion as achieving some progress on the issue.

The substantive motion was then debated by Members.

Clarity was sought on whether the wording of the proposal would affect farmers, and it was confirmed that the proposal in the context of the overall motion clarified it related to highways and related amenity land. Other comments included details on the licensing of glyphosate in the future.

It was then,

Resolved:

To support the motion as follows:

Introduction

Wiltshire Council controls  ...  view the full minutes text for item 17.

a) The Leader, Cabinet members and Chairmen of Committees will be invited to make any important announcements.

b) Councillors will be given the opportunity to raise questions to the Chairmen of Committees on the minutes of their meetings, available here, or to the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Authority on the minutes of their meetings, available here.

c) Councillors will be given an opportunity to raise general issues relating to Area Boards but not specific local issues.

No announcements were received in relation to Cabinet and Committees.

A report from Chief Executive Officers Alistair Cunningham and Terence Herbert.

At the invitation of the Chairman the Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement, Councillor Simon Jacobs, presented his report. The proposal was to appoint two new Members to the Pension Board, moved by Councillor Jacobs and seconded by Councillor Philip Whitehead.

A statement was received by Adrian Temple-Brown relating to Pension Fund investments.

During period for debate, the role of the Pension Board was clarified and that the Pensions Fund Committee was responsible for the strategy on investment. It was stated environmental issues were discussed by the Pension Fund when making decisions.

It was then,

Resolved:

That Council appoints:

a)    Paul Smith to the Local Pension Board for a four-year term as an Employer Member Representative.

b)    Mark Spilsbury to the Local Pension Board for a four-year term as Independent Chairman.

To determine any requests from Group Leaders for changes to committee membership in accordance with the allocation of seats to political groups approved by the Council.

A report was received on changes to allocations of committee places to political groups.

Following requests from Group Leaders, changes were appointed as follows, moved by the Chairman and seconded by the Vice-Chairman.

Resolved:

1)    To note this report and the legal requirements.

2)    To confirm the aggregate number and the draft scheme of committee places available to members of the Council as set out in Appendix B.

3)    To make those changes to the appointment of councillors and substitutes to serve on those committees in accordance with the revised scheme of committee places, until the next occasion membership is reviewed under the provisions of the Local Government & Housing Act 1989.

4)    In accordance with Part 3 of the Constitution, to ratify the appointment of Councillor Jo Trigg to Trowbridge Area Board.

And to make the following committee place changes:

That Councillor Jon Hubbard be removed from the Children’s Select Committee and Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee as a Liberal Democrat allocation, and added to those committees as an Independent allocation.

That Councillor Sue Evans be removed from the Children’s Select Committee.

That Councillor Stuart Wheeler be removed from the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee.

That Councillor Jo Trigg be added as a member of Children Select Committee, the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee, and as a substitute member on Audit Committee, Staffing Policy Committee, and Officer Appointments Committee.

Councillors were required to give notice of any such question in writing to the officer names on the first page of this agenda no later than 5pm nine clear working days before the meeting – Tuesday 11 February 2020in order to be guaranteed a written response.

Any question received after 5pm on 12 November 2019 and no later than 5pm four clear working days before the meeting, Tuesday 18 February 2020, may only receive a verbal response at the meeting. Any questions received after this date will be received at the next meeting.

Questions may be asked without notice if the Chairman determines the matter is urgent.

Details of any questions received will be circulated to Councillors prior to the meeting and made available at the meeting and on the Council’s website.

Questions from Members were received as detailed in the Agenda Supplement. 9 non-operation questions were received. Questions were received as ordered in the supplement. Details would be attached to the minutes.

Question 20-01

A written response was provided by the Cabinet Member. Councillor Ian Thorn as a supplementary when a Liberal Democrat of Chair of a Select Committee or Task Group were quoted in a council press release. Councillor Allison Bucknell stated a written response would be provided.

Question 20-07

A written response was provided.

Question 20-10

A written response was provided.

Question 20-13

A verbal response was provided by Councillor Bridget Wayman. There was no supplementary.

Question 20-02

A written response was provided. Councillor Ian Thorn asked a supplementary on further details of what he considered to have been an inaccurate infographic regarding the General Election results in Wiltshire. Councillor Allison Bucknell responded with media comments regarding inaccurate party leaflets, and stated that the graphic referenced did not indicate what Councillor Thorn believed.

Question 20-08

A written response was provided. Councillor Job Hubbard asked a supplementary whether on any tender that goes forward on the matter the Cabinet Member would consider subsidised bus services which provided a vital link for people travelling to and from work. Councillor Bridget Wayman stated she would consider that information.

Question 20-03

A written response was provided. Councillor Ian Thorn asked a supplementary on whether council communications to be advertised during election periods, referenced as ‘propaganda campaigns’, could be shared with other groups or scrutiny. Councillor Bucknell objected to the use of the word propaganda and stated that communication campaigns were not run through scrutiny, and that the Council would continue to tell the public what the Council was up to, to encourage visitors and residents.

Question 20-04

A written response was provided. Councillor Ian Thorn asked a supplementary question about whether drafted comments for inclusion in the business plan at the last meeting would form part of the redrafting of the Business Plan. Councillor Philip Whitehead stated that there would be a complete section on climate change, and be a part of the summary, but that comments would not be word for word.

Question 20-09

A written response was provided.