Decisions

Decisions by the Leader and Cabinet

For operational reasons, some decisions cannot wait until the next meeting of Cabinet (or council). In such circumstances, the relevant portfolio holder (or the Leader of the Council) has the authority to take the decision on an individual basis.

Notice of Forthcoming Key Decisions

The Notice of Forthcoming Key Decisions contains details of all matters which are likely to be the subject of a key decision by the council over the next four months from the date when the Notice is published.

A key decision is defined as any decision which results in the expenditure or savings of £200,000 or more, and will have a significant effect on communities in two or more wards in the district.

The Notice of Forthcoming Key Decisions shows:

• when the decisions will be taken and who will take it
• who to make representations to and how
• what arrangements are proposed to consult the public and other organisations about the decisions
• who you can contact about the decision.

The notice is updated on a monthly basis.

Notice to hold a Cabinet meeting (or parts of it) in private

The press and public can be excluded from Cabinet meetings when confidential or exempt information is being discussed. This may include personal information, commercially sensitive content, legal matters, or information relating to crime prevention and security.

When Cabinet is due to consider exempt information in private, we must publish a notice at least 28 clear working days before the meeting. The notice will explain which items are due to be considered in private and include any representations made against that decision.

The Cabinet agenda is then published at least five clear working days before the meeting and again will identify any items to be considered in private, along with representations received.

General Exception Notices

If we need to make a key decision that was not included in the Notice of Forthcoming Key Decisions, we can use the General Exception procedure.

We must publish a notice on our website at least five clear working days before the decision is made.

For General Exception Notices, those from 2014 onwards are available under the list of recent decisions.

Overview and Scrutiny

We have an Overview and Scrutiny Committee that can examine council decisions and review matters affecting the district and its residents.

The aim of scrutiny is to make a difference by holding to account those that are making decisions that affect the economic, environmental and social wellbeing of our district.

Overview and scrutiny helps us improve services and achieve better outcomes for residents. It:

• focuses on results rather than processes
• is positive, constructive and objective
• recognises good practice and recommends improvements where necessary
• supports our priorities and helps improve services across the district
• holds decision-makers to account and promotes transparency.

Speak at an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting

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