Agenda and minutes

Under the terms of Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rule 3.1.6, Councillor J Procter was invited to attend the meeting on behalf of Councillor A Carter.

There were no late items as such, however, prior to the meeting the following had been circulated to Board members for their consideration:

·  An updated version of the covering report relating to agenda item 23 entitled, ‘Citizens@Leeds: Update on Tackling Financial Hardship Proposition’ (Minute No. 48 refers);

·  An Equality, Diversity, Cohesion and Integration Screening form associated with agenda item 13 entitled, ‘Community Centre Review and Pricing Arrangements’ (Minute No. 38 refers);

·  Larger scale plans appended to agenda item 12 entitled, ‘Proposal for Civic Hall Accommodation Review’ (Minute No. 37 refers).

To disclose or draw attention to any disclosable pecuniary interests for the purposes of Section 31 of the Localism Act 2011 and paragraphs 13-16 of the Members’ Code of Conduct.

There were no Disclosable Pecuniary Interests declared at the meeting, however in relation to the agenda item entitled, ‘Grand Theatre’, Councillor Yeadon drew the Board’s attention to her position as Chair of the Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Board of Management.

With regard to the same item, Councillor J Procter drew the Board’s attention to his position as a member of the Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Board of Management and also a Board member of Northern Ballet, which was a principle user of the Grand Theatre. In addition, Councillor Wakefield drew the Board’s attention to his position as a Board member of Opera North, which was also a principle user of the Grand Theatre (Minute No. 44 refers).

Further declarations were made at later points in the meeting. (Minute Nos. 43 and 44 refer).

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 25^th June 2014

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the previous meeting held on 25^th June 2014 be approved as a correct record.

Minute No. 7, 25^th June 2014 – ‘Transfer of the Former Fir Tree Primary School, Linfield Drive, Leeds 17 to the Khalsa Education Trust’

Responding to an enquiry regarding the progress of a further report being submitted to the Board in respect of the former Fir Tree Primary School, it was noted that meetings on such matters were currently being scheduled, and that the report would be submitted to the Board at the earliest opportunity when all relevant discussions had taken place.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development responding to the deputation presented to full Council on 26^th March 2014 concerning Morley Heritage Centre.

The Director of City Development submitted a report responding to the deputation presented to full Council on 26th March 2014 regarding a permanent location for Morley Heritage Centre.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the deputation request to Council be noted;

(b)  That it be noted that the Council does not have at this time vacant and suitable accommodation in Morley Town Centre, but that it is possible that the asset review of Morley may identify suitable space;

(c)  That the request made by the deputation be referred to the Outer South Community Committee, in order to consider whether there is local support to fund this initiative should Leeds City Council, or other accommodation be identified;

(d)  That the actions required to implement the decision be noted together with the fact that the Chief Asset Management and Regeneration Officer will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which provides a summary of the research and analysis undertaken to review the future options for the Leeds Visitor Centre service. The report identifies a proposal which will achieve both the approved budget saving and increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the service and seeks approval to vacate the current premises and pursue the option to relocate the Leeds Visitor Centre in the Art Gallery Shop and Café located on The Headrow, Leeds.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which provided a summary of the research and analysis undertaken to review the future options for the Leeds Visitor Centre service. The report identified a proposal which would achieve both the approved budget saving and would also increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the service. In addition, the report sought approval to vacate the current premises and pursue the option to relocate the Leeds Visitor Centre to the Art Gallery Shop and Café located on The Headrow, Leeds.

Four potential options were outlined within the submitted report. One was to cease the current service, whilst the other three remaining options considered different locations from which it could operate.

The Board considered a number of issues including: the current location of the centre and whether it was best placed to maximise the service it provided, the rapid shifts in technology and the evolving way in which people now obtained information, the increased commercial offer which was now being provided from within the Leeds City train station and the discussions which had been held with Network Rail in respect of such matters and whether further negotiations should be held with the organisation.

In conclusion, the Board highlighted the excellent service that was provided by the staff working at the Visitors Centre.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to vacate the existing Leeds Visitor Centre premises at the city station on account of the expiry of the current lease;

(b)  That the proposal to integrate the Leeds Visitor Centre with the Art Gallery Shop and Café located on The Headrow, Leeds, be agreed;

(c)  That as a consequence of the resolutions above, the Council bring the service back in house as part of the move and as part of the proposed integration of the service, outlined within the submitted report;

(d)  That it be noted that the Director of City Development has delegated authority to finalise contractual terms associated with the expiry of the current lease and to establish appropriate interim arrangements for the transfer of the service to the new premises;

(e)  That it be noted that the Head of Strategic Planning, City Development, will be responsible for the implementation of the agreed resolutions, as detailed above.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval to implement the Leeds Bradford Cycle Superhighway Scheme as detailed in Appendix A at a total estimated cost of £21.239 million. Such costs will be funded from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority City Connect Programme budget of £29.261M which includes a DfT grant of £18.052M and £10.894M from the West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan fund.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval to implement the Leeds Bradford Cycle Superhighway Scheme, as detailed within Appendix A to the submitted report, at a total estimated cost of £21,239,000. The report highlighted that such costs would be funded from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority ‘City Connect’ Programme budget of £29,261,000 which included a Department for Transport grant of £18,052,000 and £10,894,000 from the West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan fund.

The Board received an update on the extensive consultation exercise which was ongoing with local residents and local businesses with respect to the project. It was highlighted that the Council was aware of concerns which had been raised in respect of the proposals and the Board was assured that every effort was being made to mitigate those concerns.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the scheme, as described within the submitted report, be approved;

(b)  That £21,239,000 be injected into the City Development Capital Programme;

(c)  That approval be given for the invitation of tenders and subject to the tender sums being within the tendered budget, that approval and authorisation also be given to the award of the Contract to undertake the construction of the scheme;

(d)  That authority be given to incur expenditure of £21,239,000, comprising works costs of £19,349,000 and design/ supervision costs of £1,890,000 funded by West Yorkshire Combined Authority ‘City Connect’ programme budget;

(e)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer Highways and Transportation intends to enter into an agreement with City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council to undertake works on their highway.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services seeking permission to publish statutory notices for proposals brought forward to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school and early years places. 

The Director of Children’s Services submitted a report which sought permission to publish statutory notices for proposals brought forward to meet the local authority’s duty to ensure sufficiency of school and early years places.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to publish the necessary statutory notices to:

(i)  Expand Castleton Primary School from a capacity of 210 pupils to 420

pupils with an increase in the admission number from 30 to 60 with

effect from September 2016;

(ii)  Expand Hollybush Primary School from a capacity of 420 pupils to 630

pupils with an increase in the admission number from 60 to 90 with effect from September 2016, and also change the lower age limit from 3 to 2 with effect from January 2015;

(b)  That it be noted that the Capacity Planning and Sufficiency Lead is responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Director of Children’s Services providing an update on the review of Children’s Services Transport Policy and discretionary provision for those with Special Educational aged 16-25. The report also seeks permission to begin a new public consultation between October and December 2014 and approval for the introduction of an Interim Children’s Services Transport Policy

Further to Minute No. 113, 6^th November 2013, the Director of Children’s Services submitted a report providing an update on the review of Children’s Services Transport Policy and discretionary provision for those with Special Educational Needs aged between 16-25. The report also sought permission to begin a new public consultation exercise between October and December 2014 and also sought approval for the introduction of an Interim Children’s Services Transport Policy.

It was brought to the Board’s attention that this proposed decision would defer savings from within the Children’s Services budget for at least this current financial year and that any further decision in respect of the policy would be subject to the outcome of the consultation exercise.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the following be approved for post-16 SEN students currently in receipt of discretionary funding:-

(i)  That in partnership, and with the assistance of Scrutiny, a further

consultation exercise be undertaken to consider future discretionary provisions for 16-25 year olds; to run between October and December 2014 with, in due course, a follow up report providing specific recommendations being submitted to the Board for consideration;

(ii)  The introduction of the Interim Children’s Services Transport Policy, as

appended to the submitted report, to be effective between 01 September 2014 and 31 August 2015.

(b)  That it be noted that the officer responsible for implementation of such matters is the Strategic Investment Contracting and Procurement Lead.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing details of the content and scope of the draft Leeds Parking Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and which seeks to obtain approval for formal public consultation on the content of the SPD following the template set out in the Council document “SPD Production Procedural Requirements”.

Further to Minute No. 75, 5^th September 2012, the Director of City Development submitted a report providing details of the content and scope of the draft Leeds Parking Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and which sought approval for the undertaking of formal public consultation on the content of the SPD, following the template as set out in the Council document “SPD Production Procedural Requirements”.

The Board noted the comments made in respect of the submitted report and highlighted that any matters raised as part of the consultation process would be duly considered and be used to inform the further development of the Leeds Parking SPD prior to adoption.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the draft Leeds Parking SPD, as appended to the submitted report, be noted;

(b)  That the progression of the SPD for the purposes of statutory public consultation prior to adoption as a council policy, be approved;

(c)  That the following be noted:-

(i)  the stages required to implement the decision as outlined in Appendix 2 to the submitted report;

(ii)  the proposed timescales for implementation as outlined in Appendix 2 to the submitted report; and

(iii)  that the Head of Transport Planning will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive setting out the context and presenting the options available with respect to improving the provision of the Council’s main public meeting space within Civic Hall. In line with this, the report seeks authority to spend £550,000 for the redevelopment of the new Committee Room from the Civic Hall Backlog Maintenance/ Adaptations scheme in the Capital Programme. This will enable these works to be carried out as part of the larger programme of works to redevelop the 1^st Floor West Wing of Civic Hall.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report which presented the context and outlined the options available with respect to improving the provision of the Council’s main public meeting space within Civic Hall. The report highlighted the inadequacies of the current provisions for large public meetings in the Civic Hall and as such, the report sought authority to spend £550,000 for the redevelopment of the new Committee Room from the Civic Hall Backlog Maintenance/ Adaptations scheme in the Capital Programme, which would enable these works to be carried out as part of the larger programme to redevelop the 1st Floor West Wing of Civic Hall.

Larger scale versions of the plans appended to the submitted report had been circulated to Board members prior to the meeting for their consideration.

Responding to concerns raised by a Member, it was highlighted that the proposals looked to address the inadequacies of the current public meeting facilities within Civic Hall, address the concerns from members of the public which had been raised and would form part of the broader Changing the Workplace initiative.

RESOLVED – That authority to spend £550,000 for the redevelopment of the new Committee Room from the Civic Hall Backlog Maintenance/ Adaptations scheme in the Capital Programme be approved, which will enable these works to be carried out as part of the larger programme of Changing the Workplace works to redevelop the 1st Floor West Wing of Civic Hall.

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor Golton required it to be recorded that he voted against the decisions referred to within this minute)

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) outlining proposals regarding the next phase of the review into the Council’s provision of community centres. In addition, the report seeks approval to bring forward proposals on the future extent of the portfolio and the outcomes which it will deliver to support the Best City / Best Council aims.  Finally, the report also invites the Board to endorse revised pricing arrangements for lettings in the Community Centres to support their sustainability, subject to consultation with Community Committees.

The Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report outlining proposals regarding the next phase of the review into the Council’s provision of community centres. In addition, the report sought approval to bring forward proposals on the future extent of the portfolio and the outcomes which it would deliver in order to support the ‘Best City’ and ‘Best Council’ aims. Finally, the report also invited the Board to endorse revised pricing arrangements for lettings in the Community Centres which aimed to support their sustainability, subject to consultation being undertaken with Community Committees.

A completed Equality, Diversity, Cohesion and Integration proforma in respect of the submitted report had been circulated to Board members prior to the meeting for their consideration.

Responding to an enquiry, the Board was provided with further information regarding the three price points which had been proposed, together with the proposal that ‘free lets’ would be determined by the Community Committee based upon local priorities.

A Member made reference to the differing approaches which were required in terms of the running and maintenance of the range of community centres in different locations, and it was suggested that further consideration be given to such matters in the future.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) conducts a full review of the Council’s portfolio of community centres in respect of the  benefits and costs to the local community, with specific proposals being brought forward for the purposes of consultation;

(b)  That the revised pricing policy, as set out in the submitted report be endorsed, subject to the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) consulting with Community Committees prior to proposed implementation of the changes with effect from 1st September 2014.

To consider the report of the Director of Environment and Housing regarding the decision to inject £4,943,000 of the Green Deal Communities funding into the capital programme as per the Council’s agreement with the Department of Energy and Climate Change and providing an update on the £2,660,000 of works to be undertaken through the grant in Leeds (the remaining £2,283,000 is to be spent within our neighbouring City Region Authorities). In addition, the report provides an update on the latest developments of the Green Deal ECO scheme including the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund and how this can enhance the improvements offered under Wrap Up Leeds ECO/Green Deal Communities Fund.

The Director of Environment and Housing submitted a report regarding the injection of £4,943,000 of the Green Deal Communities funding into the capital programme as per the Council’s agreement with the Department for Energy and Climate Change and providing an update on the £2,660,000 of works to be undertaken through the grant in Leeds (noting that the remaining £2,283,000 was to be spent within our neighbouring City Region Authorities).

In addition, the report also provided an update on the latest developments of the Green Deal ECO (Energy Companies Obligation) scheme, including the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund and how this could enhance the improvements offered under Wrap Up Leeds ECO/Green Deal Communities Fund.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That it be noted that the Energy and Climate Change Manager is responsible for progressing the Green Deal Communities work which is due to be completed in June 2015.

(b)  That approval be given for the Board to continue to promote Wrap Up Leeds ECO, particularly within the Green Deal Communities areas and in respect of the additional support available for measures such as solid wall insulation.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development responding to the deputation presented to full Council on 26^th March 2014 entitled “Leeds – City of Dance”.

The Director of City Development submitted a report responding to the deputation presented to full Council on 26th March 2014 entitled, “Leeds – City of Dance” and in respect of the ambition to make Leeds the top UK city for dance.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That it be recommended that the Leeds City of Dance brand and message features prominently in future city marketing campaigns undertaken by and on behalf of the city;

(b)  That it be recommended that the City Council incorporate the message that Leeds is a ‘City of Dance’ in its own key messages and communications channels, as follows:

(i)  explore the cost and feasibility of external way-finding to dance facilities in the city;

(ii)  adding endorsements of the ‘City of Dance’ to the Council’s website and other relevant promotional material;

(iii)being alert to, and taking any opportunity that presents itself to further the profile of Leeds as the ‘City of Dance’;

(iv)work with external partners to use the ‘City of Dance’ message and brand to promote the city;

(v)  request the Chief Officer for Culture and Sport to explore with the Arts Council additional ways of promoting the vision of Leeds ‘City of Dance’.

(c)  That it be noted that the Principal Officer Culture and Sport will be responsible for the implementation of the related proposals by the end of December 2014.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development outlining the programme which has been developed within Leeds City Council in many cases in collaboration with partners across the city for the commemoration of the First World War.

The Director of City Development submitted a report outlining the programme which had been developed by the Council, but in many cases in collaboration with partners across the city, for the commemoration of the First World War.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Council’s programme for the commemoration of the First World War, as it stands so far and as detailed in the submitted report and Appendix 1, be approved;

(b)  That the partnership working, as outlined within the submitted report, be endorsed;

(c)  That approval be given for the programme to be developed over the four years of the Centenary;

(d)  That it be noted that the Project Officer Culture and Sport will be responsible for the  implementation of such matters, as outlined within paragraphs 3.5 and 3.6 of the submitted report.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which seeks approval to undertake a feasibility study to address the key challenges and opportunities facing the Leeds Town Hall, with the intention that the feasibility study would help to inform a proposed application to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for grant support to assist in the proposed improvement of the Grade 1 Listed Building.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval to undertake a feasibility study in order to address the key challenges and opportunities facing the Leeds Town Hall, with the intention that the feasibility study would help to inform a proposed application to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for grant support to assist in the proposed improvement of the Grade 1 Listed Building.

Members highlighted the value of the Town Hall both as a building and as a venue, and noted that the proposed development works would address the essential maintenance issues, improve existing facilities and increase public access. It was emphasised however, that should the proposed works be undertaken, then the benefit from and usage of the Town hall would need to be maximised.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report be noted;

(b)  That the Director of City Development be authorised to undertake a feasibility study to address the key challenges and opportunities facing the Leeds Town Hall, with a view to submitting an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund and other funding sources as appropriate to support the proposed improvement works;

(c)  That the actions required to implement the proposals be noted, together with the fact that the Chief Officer Culture and Sport will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development providing background information on the arts@leeds and Leeds Inspired grant scheme in order to determine appropriate levels of support in future years. In addition, the report seeks approval for the continuation of the Leeds Inspired grant scheme and the proposed amendments to the arts@leeds grant scheme. Finally, the report seeks agreement to a budget for the next 3 years and bring in line several funded cultural activities into the Arts@Leeds portfolio with the objective of transparency, monitoring and ensuring value for money.

The Director of City Development submitted a report providing background information on the ‘arts@leeds’ and ‘Leeds Inspired’ grant scheme, in order to determine appropriate levels of support in future years. In addition, the report sought approval for the continuation of the ‘Leeds Inspired’ grant scheme and the proposed amendments to the ‘arts@leeds’ grant scheme. Finally, the report sought agreement to a budget for the next 3 years and also to bring in line several funded cultural activities into the ‘arts@leeds’ portfolio, with the aim of ensuring transparency, monitoring and value for money.

Responding to an enquiry, the Board received clarification on the rationale behind, and the potential implications arising from the proposal to introduce a maximum grant application level. Members also received an update on the ongoing contact that the Council was having with those bodies which organised the larger events across the city in respect of the proposals.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the continuation of a 3-year grant funding programme to cultural

Organisations, be approved;

(b)  That in principle approval be given to the total funding allocation to this scheme as detailed within paragraph 2.11 of the submitted report;

(c)  That simplification of the Council’s arts funding by incorporating the historical support for Leeds West Indian Carnival, Leeds Reggae Festival, the Irish Festival and Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle into the scheme, be approved;

(d)  That the proposed timescales be agreed, with grant application deadlines in October and decisions in January, in order to enable arts organisations to forward plan, and that a revision to the application and monitoring form also be agreed;

(e)  That an increase in the minimum level of grant from £1,000 to £2,000 be approved, and that a maximum application of £750,000 be enforced.

(At the commencement of this item, Councillors J Procter, Wakefield, Ogilvie, Yeadon and P Gruen drew the Board’s attention to their respective positions on the Boards of organisations which could potentially be in receipt of grants or be involved in the grants application process, to which the submitted report referred) 

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development and the Deputy Chief Executive which provides an overview of the various options available to deliver a sustainable future for the Grand Theatre and seeks approval to examine the current options in further detail and report back to Executive Board later in the year.

Further to Minute No. 24, 25^th June 2014, the Director of City Development and the Deputy Chief Executive submitted a joint report which provided an overview of the various options available to deliver a sustainable future for the Grand Theatre. In addition, the report sought approval to examine the current options in greater detail, with a proposal that a further report be submitted to Executive Board later in the year.

A number of concerns were raised by a Member in respect of the contents of the submitted report. In response, the Board noted that the purpose of the report had been to present the range of options available with regard to the future operation of the company, as noted at the 25^th June 2014 Board meeting.  In addition, responding to a further enquiry, the Board received details on the current position regarding the profit or loss made by the three individual venues managed by the Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Trust Ltd.

Members welcomed that Scrutiny Board (Sustainable Economy and Culture) was scheduled to undertake a piece of work on this matter, and it was also requested that any further work undertaken on this issue was done so on a cross-party basis.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the current financial performance of Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Trust Ltd and the potential options for future governance arrangements, be noted;

(b)  That approval be given for the Chief Officer Culture and Sport to commence further detailed work on the proposals, including the consultation outlined in the submitted report with the various stakeholders and also reflecting the comments made during the consideration of this matter, with a view to submitting further recommendations to Executive Board later in the year.

(During the consideration of this item, Councillor Mulherin drew the Board’s attention to the fact that she had been a member of the Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House Board of Management until she stepped down from the position at the conclusion of 2013/14 municipal year)

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services providing a summary of the key elements of the Care Act. The report also considers the implications of the new burdens and statutory responsibilities for the Council and its partners in respect of care and support

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report providing a summary of the key elements of the Care Act 2014. The report also considered the implications of the new burdens and statutory responsibilities for the Council and its partners in respect of care and support.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board was provided with further information on the ‘Surrey model’, as referenced within the submitted report and the current projections regarding the financial implications for Leeds arising from the Care Act reforms. Furthermore, it was agreed that Board Members receive briefings, as appropriate, on the wider financial implications arising from the introduction of the Care Act, with a view to cross-party working being developed on such matters in the future. In addition, it was noted that the relevant Scrutiny Board would be involved in this area of work and that a Members’ seminar had been scheduled on such matters.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the provisions of the Care Act (2014) and the potential impacts for Leeds, be noted.

(b)  That the progress made to date in preparing for the reforms be noted.

(c)  That the initial Equality Screening and the requirement for an Equality Impact Assessment, be noted.

(d)  That the Scrutiny Board (Health and Wellbeing and Adult Social Care) be requested to oversee the consultation and engagement requirements, including the Equality Impact Assessment.

(e)  That a further progress report be submitted to the Board in March 2015.

(f)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer, Social Care Reforms is responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Director of Adult Social Services on the implications of the Care Act to Leeds City Council and the associated development and change required to information management and technology systems to support a successful implementation. The report notes that the changes to the information management and technology systems will require an investment of £1,652,000 and Executive Board is requested to approve the release of £608,000 to supplement the identified funding of £1,044,000

The Director of Adult Social Services submitted a report regarding the implications of the Care Act 2014 to Leeds City Council and the associated development and change required to information management and technology systems to support a successful implementation. The report noted that the changes to the information management and technology systems would require an investment of £1,652,000 and Executive Board was requested to approve the release of £608,000 to supplement the identified funding of £1,044,000.

Responding to an enquiry, the Board received further detail on the proposals and clarification on the need for the investment into the information management and technology systems, which was due to the new requirements arising from the introduction of the 2014 Care Act.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the significant change which the Care Act means for the Council and the resultant need to invest in information management and technology systems in order to enable the Council to fulfil its statutory duties and continue to provide quality care and support services to the citizens of Leeds, be noted.

(b)  That the amount of change currently being undertaken within Leeds, both within the Council and with Health and external partners be noted, together with the fact that the Care Act may have an impact on the scope and delivery timescales of the related change programmes.

(c)  That the release of £608,000 additional funding in order to supplement the identified funding of £1,044,000 to implement the information management and technology change necessary to enable the successful implementation of the Care Act within Leeds City Council, be approved.

(d)  That it be noted that the officer responsible for progressing the implementation of this programme of work is the Chief Officer, Resources and Strategy within Adult Social Care.

(e)  That following the Board’s approval of the funding, it be noted that the delivery of this programme of work will commence in July 2014 for a period of 2 years.

(f)  That it be noted that the current funding estimates are based upon recently published consultation guidance which will be subject to change until October 2014. However, it also be noted that the Council needs to invest in the design and development of the information management and technology solutions now, if the Council is to meet the first phase of the Care Act implementation deadline of 1^st April 2015.

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) providing an update on the work done to-date in delivering the initiatives detailed in the November 2013 Executive Board Report around delivering Accessible and Integrated Services for the citizens of Leeds. The report also outlines the activity that has been identified to take place in 2014/15 to further deliver the Council’s aspirations for this proposition.

Further to Minute No. 118, 6^th November 2013,the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report providing an update on the work undertaken to date in delivering the initiatives detailed in the previous report around Accessible and Integrated Services for the citizens of Leeds. In addition, the report also outlined the activity which had been identified to take place in 2014/15 to further deliver the Council’s aspirations for this proposition.

Members welcomed the update, providing details of how the progress made had positively impacted upon the provision of accessible and integrated services in their respective communities.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the progress made to-date in delivering the initiatives identified in the November 2013 Executive Board report for the Accessible and Integrated Services proposition be noted.

(b)  That the activity planned for 2014/15 to embed this proposition more fully across the city be agreed.

(c)  That a further update report be submitted to the Board in six months (January 2015) from the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) on the progress achieved.

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) providing an update on the developing approach to tackle poverty and deprivation and more information on the pilots underway to help tackle financial hardship among specific groups. The report also seeks approval for an Annual Advice Plan that will incorporate the work of the Advice Leeds Consortium, set out the aims for the current year and put in place arrangements to support the delivery of advice in future years. Additionally, following the previous approval of an action plan to tackle high costs lending, the report provides an update on progress against the plan and gives information on the launch of a high profile campaign aimed at generating city-wide support for taking a stand against high costs lenders.

Further to Minute No. 118, 6^th November 2013, the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report providing an update on the developing approach being taken to tackle poverty and deprivation and detailed information on the pilots underway to help tackle financial hardship amongst specific groups. In addition, the report sought approval for an Annual Advice Plan that would incorporate the work of the Advice Leeds Consortium, set out the aims for the current year and put in place arrangements to support the delivery of advice in future years. Additionally, following the previous approval of an action plan to tackle high costs lending, the report also provided an update on progress against the plan and presented information on the launch of a high profile campaign aimed at generating city-wide support for taking a stand against high costs lenders.

An updated version of the cover report had been circulated to Board Members prior to the meeting for their information.

The Board noted the case studies detailed within the submitted report linked to the ‘multi-storey flats initiative’ and highlighted the benefit of such initiatives, not only working with individuals to identify the right package of support, but also, where appropriate, to help improve their employment prospects.

Members noted the recent proposals made by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to cap payday loan rates and highlighted the significant work which the Council continued to undertake in this field. In response, the Board noted that a briefing outlining the FCAs proposals would be prepared for Members and furthermore, it was requested that a report on such matters be submitted to the next meeting of the Board for consideration.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the information on the first year impacts of the welfare reforms that came into effect from April 2013 be noted;

(b)  That the launch of the pilots to tackle financial hardship among specific groups be noted and that a further update be submitted to the Board once the pilots have concluded;

(c)  That the Annual Advice Plan be approved;

(d)  That the progress being made in relation to high cost lending in the city be noted;

(e)  That the policy statement on tackling high cost lending in the city, as set out in paragraph 3.27 of the submitted report, be approved; and

(f)  That a report be submitted to the next meeting of the Board regarding the proposals recently announced by the FCA regarding a cap on payday loan rates.

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) providing information on the activities of the Illegal Money Lending Team within Leeds, together with an updated action plan

Further to Minute No. 10, 19^th June 2013, the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report providing information on the activities of the Illegal Money Lending Team within Leeds, together with an updated action plan.

The Chair thanked the Scrutiny Board (Safer and Stronger Communities) for the inquiry it had undertaken into this subject and the resultant recommendations it had produced.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report be noted and that approval be given for the Board to continue to receive annual reports on the activities of the Illegal Money Lending Team within the Leeds city area;

(b)  That the authority delegated to Birmingham City Council to undertake investigations and institute proceedings against illegal money lenders operating within the Leeds district be extended from March 2015 to 31 March 2019.

To consider the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) providing information on the likely costs and implications of maintaining the current Council Tax Support scheme for 2015/16. The report also provides information on alternative schemes that support people moving into work and incentivise households to engage with the council to help improve work prospects. In addition, the report seeks agreement to develop and consult upon a potential new Council Tax Support scheme which is based around high levels of support and high levels of challenge with a focus on supporting people into work, given the issues created by the current scheme.

Further to Minute No. 140, 18^th December 2013, the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities) submitted a report providing information on the likely costs and implications of maintaining the current Council Tax Support Scheme for 2015/16. The report also provided information on alternative schemes that would support people moving into work and incentivise households to engage with the Council to help improve work prospects. In addition, the report sought agreement to develop and consult upon a potential new Council Tax Support Scheme which would be based around high levels of support and high levels of challenge, with a focus on supporting people into work, given the issues created by the current scheme.

It was highlighted that the proposals detailed within the submitted report included maintaining the existing protection for the most vulnerable, but also to look to provide greater incentives and support for households on improving their employment prospects.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the issues created by the current approach to our Council Tax Support scheme and the need therefore to consider alternative approaches, be noted;

(b)  That approval be given for officers to undertake further work on options 2 and 3, as outlined within the submitted report, and to develop and consult upon a potential new Council Tax Support scheme, which is based around high levels of support and high levels of challenge, with a focus on supporting people into work;

(c)  That confirmation be given that funding for the 2015/16 Council Tax Support Scheme will be retained at the budgeted level for 2014/15;

(d)  That the detail of developing a potential new scheme for the purposes of consultation be delegated to the Assistant Chief Executive (Citizens and Communities), with the decision to consult upon a new scheme being made following discussions with the relevant Executive Members and which would be eligible for call-in. It also be noted that any consultation would need to take place within the timescales set out within paragraph 2.3 of the submitted report.

(e)  That a report be submitted to the Board in December 2014 outlining the outcome of the consultation exercise and making a recommendation based upon that consultation for the adoption of a new Council Tax Support scheme for 2015/16.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive setting out the Council’s projected financial health position for 2014/15 after three months of the financial year. As Budget Monitoring is a continuous process throughout the year, this report reviews the position of the budget after the first quarter and comments on the key issues impacting on the overall achievement of the budget for the current year.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report presenting the Council’s projected financial health position for 2014/15 after three months of the financial year. As Budget Monitoring was a continuous process throughout the year, the submitted report reviewed the position of the budget after the first quarter and commented upon the key issues impacting on the overall achievement of the budget for the current year.

It was noted that the £3.3million overspend currently projected did not take account of the financial implications arising from the decision to undertake a further period of consultation to consider future discretionary provisions for 16-25 year olds or any potential costs associated with a Supreme Court legal judgement brought against Cheshire West and Chester Council.

The Board also noted that the next financial health report would provide further detail on the overspend projections and also on proposals regarding ways in which such potential overspend could be addressed. 

RESOLVED – That the projected financial position ofthe authority after the first quarter of 2014/15, be noted.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive providing the Executive Board with a final update on the Treasury Management Strategy and operations 2013/14

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report providing a final update on the Treasury Management Strategy and operations for the period 2013/14.

RESOLVED – That the Treasury Management outturn position for 2013/14 be noted, together with the fact that treasury activity has remained within the treasury management strategy and policy framework.

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive providing an update on the capital programme position as at June 2014.  The report includes an update of capital resources, progress on spend and a summary of the economic impact of the capital programme.

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report providing an update on the capital programme position as at June 2014. The report included an update of capital resources, progress on spend and a summary of the economic impact of the capital programme.

It was noted that the next Capital Programme update report intended to provide an update on the outcomes of the review taking place which looked to reprioritise existing resources in order to ensure that the programme continued to contribute towards the delivery of the Best Council Business Plan.

RESOLVED – That the latest position on the General Fund and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital programmes be noted.

To consider the report of the Director of Public Health on the current situation in respect of smoking in Leeds. The report also provides a brief on the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control and seeks the Board’s endorsement of the Declaration.

The Director of Public Health submitted a report regarding the current situation in respect of smoking in Leeds. In addition, the report also provided a brief on the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control and sought the Board’s endorsement of the Declaration.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Local Government Declaration onTobacco Control be endorsed.

(b)  That it be noted that the Director of Public Health is responsible for the implementation of the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control.

DATE OF PUBLICATION:    FRIDAY, 18^TH JULY 2014

LAST DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:  FRIDAY, 25^TH JULY 2014 AT 5.00 P.M.

(Scrutiny Support will notify Directors of any items called in by 12.00noon on Monday, 28^th July 2014)