Eastleigh Borough Council Policy and Performance Scrutiny Panel Meeting

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

It was AGREED -

That the Minutes of the meeting of the Panel held on 17 October 2024 be confirmed and signed by the Chair as a correct record.

There was no public participation on this occasion.

The Chair brought the recently published External Governance Review to the attention of the committee. The outcomes of the review were presented to Audit and Resources on Thursday 14 November 2024 (https://meetings.eastleigh.gov.uk/documents/s50039549/External%20Governance%20Review%20Report.pdf).

Councillor Asman requested that the Service Director for Finance, Improvement and Housing provided an update from the Housing Task and Finish Group. An update was provided to the committee including the arrears position.

The Customer Support Manager introduced the report.

Councillors commented on the increase of complaints and queried if this was as a result of a reduction in resources. Reassurance was provided that it was not due to budget restraints.  

Grass cutting was raised as an issue along with the inaccuracy of the interactive map. Councillor Gomer confirmed that Grass Cutting was on the Work Programme for March’s meeting.

RESOLVED –

That the Policy and Performance Scrutiny Panel considered and noted information in the Annual Compliments and Complaints report.

The Resource Manager gave a short presentation to the Panel which highlighted a Performance Overview for Quarter Two, Resourcing Challenges, Corporate Strategy and Actions. 

A discussion took place with regards to the use of Wessex House and requested than an update be brought back to the Committee.

Staff sickness and service performance was raised as a concern, particularly in Neighbourhoods and Green Spaces. Councillors were reassured that it is in line with the national average.

RESOLVED -

That the Policy and Performance Scrutiny Panel considered and commented on the performance and forecast financial position of the Council for the second quarter of the year.

The Head of Sales, Communications and Marketing introduced the report and outlined the progress made to date.

A discussion took place with regards to Shared Ownership schemes.

RESOLVED –

That Policy and Performance Scrutiny Panel considered and commented on the contents of this report.

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 2025.

It was AGREED that the Work Programme be noted.

There were no queries in relation to the exempt appendix, so the exempt session was not required.