Eastleigh Borough Council Policy and Performance Scrutiny Panel Meeting

There were no declarations of interest in relation to items of business on the agenda.

It was AGREED -

That the Minutes of the meeting of the Panel held on 11 January 2024 be confirmed and signed by the Chair as a correct record.

There was no public participation on this occasion.

There was no Chair’s Report on this occasion.

Housing Task and Finish Group

Councillor Asman reported that the Group are due to meet on 19 February 2024. More Housing Policies will come to Committee soon.

Graffiti Task and Finish Group

Councillor Gomer is in the process of completing the report and will circulate to the Group once completed.

The Local Area Services and Animal Welfare Manager gave a presentation to the Committee which outlined policy objectives, licensing process and next steps.

A discussion took place with regards to the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in respect of dog fouling.

RESOLVED –

That the Panel noted the proposed request for public consultation on the draft Animal Licensing and Welfare Policy and draft Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to control Dog Fouling within the Borough.

The Deputy Chief Executive gave a presentation to the Committee which outlined budget pressures, budget savings, service improvements, earmarked reserves and interest rates.

A discussion took place with regards to interest rates, earmarked reserves and property portfolios. It was explained that One Horton Heath costs are capitalised and not included within the budget figures.

RESOLVED –

That Policy & Performance Scrutiny Panel noted the contents of this report.

The Service Director for Finance, Improvement and Strategic Housing gave a short presentation to the Committee which included key items, interest rates, performance against Corporate Plan and 3-year Action Plan and a summary of service performance.

A discussion took place with regards to staff sickness. Councillors were reassured that absences were in line with the national average and that a Working Group had been formed by staff to discuss ways to manage sickness moving forward.

RESOLVED –

That the Policy and Performance Scrutiny Panel noted the performance and the forecast financial position of the Council for the third quarter of the financial year.

The Panel considered the Forward Plan of Key Decisions.

It was AGREED that the report be noted.

Panel members considered their Work Programme to March 2024.

Air Quality will be coming to Committee in June.

It was AGREED that the Work Programme be noted.