| Item | Description | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| PART 1 - PUBLIC | ||
| MATTERS FOR RECOMMENDATION TO THE COUNCIL | ||
| CB 06/130 |
Local Government White Paper: "Strong and Prosperous Communities" |
The joint report of the Leader and Chief Executive gave a preliminary overview of the contents of the Local Government White Paper published on 26 October 2006. The Central Services Director made a presentation illustrating the main provisions within the White Paper and a summary produced by the Local Government Association giving its initial reaction to the various proposals was annexed to the report. It was considered that a detailed analysis of the White Paper and its implications for the Council should be prepared for discussion at a future meeting. Members were invited to consider two issues which needed to be addressed by a deadline of 25 January 2007, namely the Council's stance on the process of bidding for unitary status or applying to be a pathfinder in respect of new two tier models. Reference was made to the current work being undertaken in partnership with the other Kent authorities and the need for each authority to be in agreement with any pathfinder proposals. RECOMMENDED: That (1) the Chief Executive be instructed to prepare a detailed analysis of the White Paper and to submit this for discussion at the next appropriate meeting of the Cabinet or, alternatively, via the Management Liaison Panel or a dedicated seminar; (2) the Council resolves not to submit any proposals for unitary structures in response to the Secretary of State's invitation; and (3) the Council reserves its position on the question of the submission of a bid for pathfinder status with the other eleven districts and county council but authorises the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council and the other Group Leaders, to agree to the appointment of consultants to develop and improve two tier working if he believes it is in the best interests of the Council and its residents to do so. *Referred to Council |