Decision details

Consideration of recommendation OS 24/50 of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee of 14 November 2024 in respect of the operation of the Tonbridge Community Forum.

Cabinet had due regard to the views of the Committee, the financial and value for money considerations and legal implications and noted that there was a preference for in-person meetings with greater input from community groups and a more collaborative approach.

A preference for meetings to be held at the Tonbridge Methodist Church for a trial period to reduce costs associated with room hire and provision of audio-visual support was also noted.  To provide clarity around open discussion (as set out in recommendation (3)) Cllr Boughton proposed that the words ‘on that item’ be added.  This was seconded by Cllr Coffin and supported unanimously by Cabinet.

The views of the Parish Partnership Panel of 21 November 2024 would be considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in due course. 

RESOLVED:  That

(1)        the venue for Tonbridge Community Forum be moved to Tonbridge Methodist Church on a trial basis for all meetings in 2025;

(2)        all Meetings of the Tonbridge Community Forum be held in person on a trial basis in 2025;

(3)        following a topic or item raised at Tonbridge Community Forum a section should be dedicated to open discussion on that item to provide an opportunity for all members to discuss and respond to the matter; and

(4)        it be noted that the views of the Parish Partnership Panel would be considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in due course.