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The decisions as the council's minutes record them. A plain-language summary follows once it has been written.
RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the following meetings: · 9th March 2022 · 25th May 2022 (Council AGM) · 25th May 2022 (Extraordinary Meeting)
RESOLVED to: 1. Note the key messages and recommendations, and · Endorse the Regional Market Stability report; · Endorse the following short to medium term strategic priorities for Rhondda Cynon Taff arising from the MSR: i. A strategic review of accommodation with care for vulnerable people to ensure future provision is meeting the needs of people with complex needs identified in the MSR and our facilities are fully utilised; ii. Strengthen the Council’s response to meeting its placement sufficiency duty for children looked after by increasing local not-for-profit provision (both residential and fostering) to meet the needs of children closer to home; iii. Work with providers to develop sustainable integrated models of service for community-based services, including domiciliary care, to address workforce pressures; and iv. Increase the availability of respite services for both adults and children. (Note: Councillor M Rees-Jones who had previously declared a personal and prejudicial interest left the meeting for the duration of the item, Minute No.6 refers).
RESOLVED: 1. To note the contents of the report; and in doing so note the responses to the Elected Members’ Survey in respect of the Timing of Meetings, as outlined in paragraph4. 2. To note the proposed Calendar of Meetings for the Municipal Year 2022 - 2023, as attached at Appendix 1 to thereport; and 3. To note that the draft calendar is subject to change, based upon the demands of business over the coming municipal year. Any changes or additions will be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate committee chairs.
RESOLVED to: 1. Note the draft Work Programme attached as Appendix 1 to the report; and 2. Approve the Work Programme for the 2022-2023 Municipal Year (with appropriate amendments where necessary) and thereafter receive further updates from the Service Director Democratic Services & Communication as appropriate.
RESOLVED to note the information contained within the report.
RESOLVED – to ratify the recommendation of the Appointments Committee that Mr. Paul Mee be appointed to the post of permanent Chief Executive from the 1st December 2022.
RESOLVED to note the Section 3A- Leader’s Scheme of Delegation of Executive Functions, which is attached at Appendix 1.
RESOLVED to: 1. Agree to advertise the role of Independent (lay) Member on the Council’s Standards Committee, based on the established criteria set out in the report; 2. Agrees to consult with Community Councils in respect of inviting applications from Community Councillors for the vacancy of Community Council Member (plus a reserve) on the Council’s Standards Committee; 3. Subject to 2.1 and 2.2 above, establishes an Appointments Panel to consider applications for the appointment of an Independent Member of the Standards Committee for a term of six years and a Community Council Member (plus reserve) for a term until the next ordinary elections (in 2027); 4 Nominates three County Borough Councillors (2 from the ruling group and 1 from the largest opposition group) and the incumbent Chair of the Standards Committee to be members of the Appointments Panel; 5 Delegates authority to the Director of Legal Services to appoint a Community Councillor to the Appointments Panel; and 6 Subject to the above, agrees to receive a further report and consider any recommendations emanating from the Appointments Panel convened to interview any applicants who apply for the vacant roles.
RESOLVED to a) note the content of the report; and b) agree the funding proposals for the Sustainable Communities for Learning programme as set out at section 13. In accordance with the requirements of both the CIPFA Code of Practice on Treasury Management and the CIPFA Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities, the Director of Finance and Digital Services provided Members with information on:-
RESOLVED to adopt the Notice of Motion. (Note: All members of the Plaid Cymru Group, present at the meeting, wished to have their names recorded as voting in favour of the suggested alteration to the Notice of Motion: Councillors K Morgan, S Evans, D Grehan, A Ellis, A Rogers, D Wood and H Gronow).
The Chair welcomed attendees to the hybrid meeting of the Council and apologies for absence were received from County Borough Councillors S Jane-Davies, J Elliott, M Norris, S Powderhill and K Webb. The following Councillors and officers were present in the Council Chamber: County Borough Councillors L Addiscott, M Ashford, J Barton, P Binning, J Bonetto, S Bradwick, J Cook, A Crimmings, R Davies, V Dunn, E Dunning, J Edwards, S Emmanuel, S Evans, D Grehan, B Harris, S Hickman, G Holmes, G Hughes, W Hughes, G Jones, Geraint Jones, W Jones, R Lewis, W Lewis, C Leyshon, M Maohoub, C Middle, A Morgan, N Morgan, S Morgans, D Parkin, C Preedy, S Rees, M Rees-Jones, J Smith, B Stephens, L Tomkinson, S Trask, J Turner and R Williams. Mr C Bradshaw, Chief Executive, Mr B Davies, Director of Finance & Digital Services, Mr A Wilkins, Director Legal Services Mr C Hanagan, Service Director Democratic Services & Communications, Mr R Evans, Director Human Resources and Mr P Mee Group Director of Community & Children’s Services. The following Councillors were present online: County Borough Councillors R Bevan, J Brencher, G Caple, A Ellis, L Ellis, D Evans, Sera Evans, R Evans, A S Fox, H Gronow, G Hopkins, K Johnson, C Lisles, K Morgan, D Owen-Jones, W Owen, M Powell, A Roberts, A Rogers, G Stacey, W Treeby, G Warren, M Webber, D Williams, G Williams, T Williams, D Wood and R Yeo.
In accordance with the Council’s Code of Conduct, the following declarations were made pertaining to the agenda: Agenda item 9 - Review of the Council's Lower Grades and Terms & Conditions Matters Councillor S Emmanuel declared the following personal and prejudicial interest– “My wife is a level 2 teaching assistant employed by RCT” Councillor W Lewis declared the following personal and prejudicial interest – “ My daughter-in-law is on a grade 2” Councillor R Lewis declared the following personal interest – “ A close family member’s job title is referenced in the report, but she is not a beneficiary” Councillor M Powell declared the following: Personal – “I’ve been granted dispensation by the Standards Committee to speak and vote on all matters relating to the present and proposed budget for 2022-23, for all of those items that would reflect a budget adjustment and my wife is an employee of the Local Authority” Agenda Item 10 - Appointment of Chief Executive Mr Paul Mee declared a personal interest – “ I will leave the chamber for the duration of this item and after I have presented my report” Agenda item 11 - Cwm Taf Morgannwg Market Stability Report Councillor R Bevan declared the following personal and prejudicial interest– “My daughter works in Social Care” Councillor M Rees-Jones declared a personal and prejudicial interest– “ I work for Social Services” Councillor K Morgan declared a personal interest – “I work for Cwm Taf Morgannwg Health Board” Agenda item 16 – NOTICE OF MOTION Councillor S Emmanuel declared the following personal interest– “My wife is a level 2 teaching assistant employed by RCT” Councillor S Trask declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor R Williams declared the following personal interest – “ I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor C Preedy declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor R Bevan declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor K Morgan declared the following personal interest – “ I am a member of the trade union” Councillor R Yeo declared the following personal interest – “ I have re-joined the GMB trade union” Councillor M Webber declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unison” Councillor Sheryl Evans declared the following personal interest - “I am a member of Unison” Councillor G Jones declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor A Crimmings declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unison” Councillor J Edwards declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unison” Councillor R Davies declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unison” Councillor M Ashford declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of Unison” Councillor W Lewis declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of GMB” Councillor W Hughes declared the following personal interest – ““I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor C Middle declared the following personal interest – ““I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor M Maohoub declared the following personal interest – ““I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor S Emmanuel declared the following personal interest – ““I am a member of Unite the Union” Councillor Sera Evans declared the following personal interest – ““I am a member of Unison” Councillor G Caple declared the following personal interest – ““I am a retired member of Unison” Councillor G Hughes declared the following personal Interest – “ I am a member of GMB” After the conclusion of the meeting, the following declarations of interest were received, which were not identified by the members concerned as part of the formal proceedings: Agenda item 9 - Review of The Council's Lower Grades and Terms & Conditions Matters - Councillor J Barton declared the following personal interest – “My son has an interview for a finance and admin job at one of these lower grades” Agenda item 16 – Urgent Notice of Motion- Councillor J Cook declared the following personal interest – “I am a member of GMB”
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the following meetings: · 9th March 2022 · 25th May 2022 (Council AGM) · 25th May 2022 (Extraordinary Meeting)
The Council RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the following meetings: · 9th March 2022 · 25th May 2022 (Council AGM) · 25th May 2022 (Extraordinary Meeting)
The following announcements were made: Councillor A Morgan announced that the Cynon Valley Indoor Bowls Centre in Mountain Ash has reopened after being used as a vaccination centre and as a mass testing centre. Councillor Morgan wished to thank the centre and council staff for their work during this period. He also announced that a number of players have been selected to play at the Commonwealth Games and he congratulated 3 players from Harlequin Bowls and Community Club, representing Wales in the Commonwealth Games in July, Ross Owen from Mountain Ash and Jarred Green from Gilfach Goch who form part of a team of five, Paul Brown from Hirwaun will also be representing Wales in the Para team of four. Councillor J Edwards wished to congratulate Ynyshir Albions for their recent success. Councillor Edwards recounted the team’s progress over the past few years and the Club’s huge improvements to the stands, pitch and ground by self -funding which saw the club achieve tier 3 accreditation as part of the pyramid restructure. They have achieved tier two from tier seven football in only 6 seasons. Councillor Edwards congratulated the team’s phenomenal achievements. Councillor S Evans announced that a local boy Ty Lewis has been selected for a 3year contract to play rugby for Beziers Rugby team in the South of France. She added that Ty started his rugby career in Abercwmboi rugby club before being selected to play for Beziers. Councillor Evans also announced that another local boy, Adam De Vet has been selected as the only Welsh kick boxing representative to attend the Wako World Championships in Jesolo, Italy in October 2022. Councillor Evans asked whether, with permission from the Presiding Member, she was able to circulate a sponsorship form to support Adam with his trip. On behalf of the Mayor, the Presiding Member confirmed that both would be invited to the Mayor’s parlour along with their family. Councillor G Jones announced the 150th anniversary of the Caradog Music Festival which will be held free of charge for members of the public on the 15/16th July where there will be a wide range of musicians, choirs and live music. Councillor D Parkin handed in a petition on behalf of the Friends of Tonyrefail raising concerns regarding proposals surrounding the W.R Bishop Site on Penrhiwfer Rd.
Statements of the Leader of the County Borough, County Borough Councillor A Morgan in respect of Flooding and the Pension Fund: Statement – Pension Fund The Leader advised that the RCT Pension Fund has always invested its assets in a responsible way and engages with companies as part of ensuring an orderly carbon transition. This has already resulted in ongoing reductions in the Council’s fossil fuel holdings and the establishment of disinvestment principles. The Leader announced that as part of the Council’s climate change goals he has approached officers to work with the Pension Committee to review options for setting a target for disinvesting its remaining Pension Fund investments away from fossil fuel extraction. The Leader concluded that he would like to see this by 2030, although some local authorities are setting targets ahead of that, but he recognised that there are responsibilities which the Council has to the Pension Fund and that we do co-invest with the other Funds across Wales. In conclusion, the Leader assured Members that the Council is taking its responsibilities seriously and plans to disinvest will be set out in the coming months. Statement – Flooding Councillor Morgan advised that the Council currently has 52 project stages in the design stage and he provided information on a number of those: • In Upper Bronallt Terrace, Abercwmboi, there is a Flood Alleviation scheme which commenced over a week ago on site with an estimated value of £720k · In Treorchy Phase 1of the flood scheme is commencing next week with an estimated value of £605k · Cae Felin Parc West (Culvert Relining scheme) in Hirwaun which is due to commence in August with an estimated value of £165k · Glenboi Pumping Station in Mountain Ash –the tender has returned with an estimated value of £1.3m · Bryntail Road and Masefield Way in Rhydyfelin with an estimated value of £250k · Structural lining of culverts in Pentre with an estimated value of £175k · Investing in flood alleviation and drainage is also a priority for the Council - £26.3m Capital Programme for Highways, Transportation and Strategic Projects in 2022/23. · In addition, more than £6.5m is secured from Welsh Government for Storm Dennis-related works and damage this year. Demolition work at Castle Inn Bridge in Treforest has commenced. The leader confirmed that a further profile will be submitted to Welsh Government. · Almost £500k has been secured through the Resilient Roads schemes, small scale projects which will protect roads and key bus routes. Many of the road flooding projects will also protect homes and properties. A further £3.3 million in additional funding has been secured for flood schemes and will cover many smaller schemes and upgrades to culverts, watercourses and ditches. • A further £7m has been spent since Storm Dennis on coal tips, largely on phases 1-3 of the Tylorstown tip. Work has also been carried out with Welsh Government and The Coal Authority to secure works to stabilise the privately owned Wattstown Standard Tip. · The Council is working with contractors on the next phase of the Tylorstown land slip with the contract to be confirmed and let over the summer evaluation, advanced works to improve the access roads in the Winter with the main engineering work commencing in 2023, weather dependent with WG covering the funding for the work · Huge amount of work being carried out to determine what needs to be done to alleviate flooding, new emergency room and refresh the Council’s emergency plan and will continue to form a significant part of the Council’s budget. · The Leader advised that should there be a further Storm Dennis event, significant flooding would still occur across the county borough. The modelling work needs to be completed with a full system analysis through the Taff, Cynon and the Rhondda by NRW to determine what work needs to be carried out in the future. Further lobbying will need to be carried out for further investment from NRW and WG to better protect our communities from river flooding. · A further update will be provided in the Autumn.
1. Question from County Borough Councillor R. Davis to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure, County Borough Councillor A. Crimmings: “With another round of investment in play areas across RCT announced recently, can the Cabinet Member please confirm whether this remains a priority for the new administration going forward?” Response of County Borough Councillor Crimmings: Councillor Crimmings advised that the investment in play areas remains a priority for this administration and as stated in the RCT Labour Group’s manifesto for this Council term, there will continue to be an ongoing commitment to invest in children’s play areas with at least 75 more being upgraded over the next five years. In addition to this investment, 10 new Multi Use Games Area’s across RCT will be developed. Last month, details of the Council’s investment programme for 2022/23, which will see 19 more children’s play area facilities improved through a £672,000 investment was announced. Councillor Crimmings added that the Mount Pleasant play area in Councillor Davis’s ward is due for improvements through a partial refurbishment under this programme. Councillor Crimmings stated that with this year’s investment, a total of £4.8m will have been allocated to delivering improvements at around 130 facilities across RCT in the past seven years. No Supplementary Question 2. Question from County Borough Councillor D. Grehan to the Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, County Borough Councillor B. Harris: “The current practice of placing young people in residential areas that were originally developed for older residents is creating significant problems. Once again, is the Council willing to consider allocating some residential areas for older residents only?” Response of County Borough Councillor Harris: Councillor Harris commented that social housing developments that have been created specifically for older people, such as Sheltered or older persons accommodation, has an age-criteria of 60 plus, and in some cases 55 plus. Where allocations have been made to younger people in other social housing developments, this would be where the scheme has not specifically been developed for older people but perhaps at some point in time a local lettings policy may have been in place to ensure allocations only go to older residents. Councillor Harris added that local lettings policies are temporary and therefore once they have come to an end any future allocations will be made in priority order to people in the highest housing need. If there are ongoing problems in a particular development, the Housing Association will approach the Council to discuss implementing a local lettings policy. Councillor Harris advised that the policy will set out the criteria for allocating properties based on the evidence provided, for example there may be a need for a better mix of tenants - such as a balance between older and younger people. He added that a number of Extra Care developments have also been developed by the Council over the past number of years, providing high quality self-contained units for older people in need of care and support. Supplementary question from County Borough Councillor G Grehan: “In one particular block of flats in my ward, three people have recently moved in who have drug related problems which has changed the environment to the detriment of the existing residents. Will the Council consider adopting the lettings policy which is relative to this development so that the older residents can be assured that no one else with drug related problems will move in?” Response from County Borough Councillor B Harris: “Councillor Harris acknowledged the nature of the issue and confirmed he would respond to Cllr Grehan in due course regarding this particular case” 3. Question from County Borough Councillor A. S. Fox to the Cabinet Member for Public Health & Communities, County Borough Councillor B. Harris: “How is this Council taking action to improve public safety in communities?” Response of County Borough Councillor Harris: Councillor Harris advised that ensuring RCT is a safe place, with high levels of community cohesion, and where residents feel safe, is a key aim of the Council’s corporate priority of creating places where people are proud to live, work and play. He added that the Council’s Community Safety Team responsible for working with partners to respond to reports of ASB by individuals or in communities, using an evidence based, targeted approach to address problem areas. This includes liaising with young people in communities, together with the YEPS Service, and working with schools and parents to prevent ASB. Councillor Harris commented that enforcing the PSPO in relation to drug and alcohol-related ASB in our communities and town centres is a key priority to reduce the impact of substance misuse and to promote safer and more confident communities. Although Councillor Harris acknowledged that incidents of ASB have increased over the past few years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Councillor Harris advised that Cabinet Members agreed the introduction of new Community Warden service to support South Wales Police in RCT last month. He added that Community Wardens will provide a visible, uniformed and reassuring presence in communities 7 days a week, with a focus on town centres and parks. Wardens will undergo rigorous training to proportionately use the Council’s enforcement powers to uphold our PSPOs. He stated that the roles and responsibilities of the Community Wardens are Preventative and Reactive. Councillor Harris confirmed that Wardens will not replace the Police; instead, they will complement existing services by working closely with relevant partner organisations. In conclusion, Councillor Harris advised that as agreed by Cabinet, the Council would provide funding to SW Police for a further 10 PCSOs, which will be dedicated solely to RCT but remain under the direction of SWP. No Supplementary Question 4. Question from County Borough Councillor M. Powell to the Leader of the Council, County Borough Councillor A. Morgan: “Would the Leader consider upwards of 5 years a long enough time for RCTCBC to devise and implement, with a policy that includes business permits, an extension to the existing residential parking permit area in the Trallwn ward?” Response of County Borough Councillor Morgan: Councillor Morgan advised that the most recent Resident’s parking scheme in Trallwn was introduced in December 2015. Due to a number of businesses in and around Trallwn there was a need to review and amend the policy as any extension to the zone had the potential to negatively impact them. Councillor Morgan added that a demand to expand the zone was identified as part of that review but in the years since the review, the team responsible for delivering Resident Parking Zones has faced numerous demands on their available resources and due to major unforeseen events such as Storm Dennis and the pandemic, as well a demanding Capital programme of highway improvements and Road Safety Schemes. Nevertheless, Councillor Morgan acknowledged that this process has taken much longer to conclude than is desirable or expected, however he confirmed that he has been assured by officers that the review of the policy is now complete and will be made available to him in the coming days for his consideration. Following the sign off of the policy, Officers will be able to continue to progress the required changes to the Residents Parking Zone within Trallwn. Councillor Morgan commented that Councillor Powell is owed an apology for the time taken to implement the scheme. Supplementary question from County Borough Councillor M Powell: “Will the scheme be implemented in this financial year?” Response from County Borough Councillor A Morgan: Councillor Morgan gave a commitment that following the outcome of the review that would be the case. 5. Question from County Borough Councillor M. Maohoub to the Leader of the Council, County Borough Councillor A. Morgan: “Can the Council Leader please provide an update on the various flood schemes planned and ongoing across RCT, including for the Cwmbach ward?” Response of County Borough Councillor Morgan: The Leader advised that as he had provided a statement earlier in the meeting outlining the Council’s key work in relation to flood alleviation work, his response would be brief Councillor Morgan stated that the current secured funding for 2022/23 is £3.3m with potential for a further £2.92m on the Welsh Government FRM Major Projects Pipeline totalling £6.7m. Councillor Morgan outlined the various flood schemes across RCT and in the Cwmbach ward as follows: Construction work has commenced nearby at: • Upper Bronallt Terrace Flood Alleviation Scheme (in Abercwmboi), and; • A4059 at Newtown in Mountain Ash Works are also about to complete at Heath Terrace (Ynyshir) and the renewal of Culverts under Rhigos Road (Hirwaun) work in excess of £500k • Cwmbach Ward has benefitted from investment in 5 projects with an estimated investment of £1m+ Since Feb 2020. • Building on the successful completion of scour prevention works to the rear of Sion Terrace, the Council is currently developing a business case for a second phase to further improve the watercourse. Councillor Morgan advised of those projects already completed in Cwmbach Ward since Feb 2020 as follows: • Cwmbach Industrial Estate FAS (RRF) - £700k • Cefn Pennar Road inlet (SSS) - £25k • R/O Sion Terrace Scour – phase 1 (SSS) - £129k • Bro Deg/Sion Terrace inlet and Rain Gardens (SSS) - £125k • Emergency Interventions for damage to culverts/watercourses (EF) – Est £50-100k No supplementary question 6. Question from County Borough Councillor L. Addiscott to the Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services, County Borough Councillor T. Leyshon: “How is this Council progressing plans for the introduction of Electric Charge Points throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf?” Response of County Borough Councillor Leyshon: Councillor Leyshon advised that in May 2022, the Council announced it had secured funding to install public-use Electric Vehicle Charging Points at 31 car parks across the County Borough, having worked closely with the Cardiff Capital Region on a regional programme of charge points. Councillor Leyshon confirmed that as the first Local Authority in the region to commence works to install these funded charging points, the programme of installations is now well underway with the aim of having all of the EVCPs in place by the end of the summer. She added that as part of this programme, the northern Cynon Valley will see 20 chargers spread across eight sites, including 2 situated in Penderyn. Councillor Leyshon commented that the Council is also bidding for further funding to install even more charging points at additional locations across RCT by the end of 2022/23. Increasing the availability of Electric Vehicle Charge Points across the County for residents who are unable to charge vehicles at home forms a key part of the Council’s wider Climate Change commitment. In her response, Councillor Leyshon stated that the Council considers it important to promote electric vehicle usage as they produce fewer emissions than those produced by petrol and diesel vehicles, and more widespread use will have a beneficial impact on air quality and the local environment. In conclusion, Councillor Leyshon advised that it is essential for the Council to “practice what it preaches” and also continue to play its part in leading the green agenda locally. Part of this commitment will be to transition to electric vehicle fleet where possible and a report will be brought before Cabinet in the near future on this matter. No Supplementary Question 7. Question from County Borough Councillor S. Emanuel to the Leader of the Council, County Borough Councillor A. Morgan: “How is the Council supporting low-income households to meet the pressures of increasing household fuel costs?” Response of County Borough Councillor Morgan: Councillor Morgan commented that following a decade of Tory austerity and the COVID-19 pandemic, we are currently experiencing the worst cost of living crisis for decades and added that research has indicated that poorer households will feel the effects of this more deeply due to a higher proportion of income being spent on food and energy. Councillor Morgan stated that amazingly for the 21st Century, research is also showing that work alone is not a route out of poverty. Councillor Morgan commented that the Welsh Government is, as usual, going further to provide support than the Conservative Government in Westminster. For example, 95% of eligible RCT households have received either the £150 or £100 cost of living payments and the poorest people in Wales are receiving support. Councillor Morgan acknowledged the work and commitment of the Council’s financial teams under the lead of the Director of Finance & Digital Services and Chief Executive as the Council was praised as it has already paid over £1.8m from the Discretionary Cost of Living Support Scheme to over 26,000 qualifying households. All eligible households have been contacted by letter with instructions on how to apply. Councillor Morgan advised that the Council has provided support to the Foodbanks and food schemes through a one-off payment of £50,000 to enable them to continue their vital work in supporting the local communities. In addition, the Council has supported the community food schemes and has also used WG funding for this purpose to support local residents. In conclusion, Councillor Morgan confirmed that as part of RCT Labour’s manifesto commitments for this Council term, we are also working to bring further another package of support for residents in the winter.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to: 1. Note the key messages and recommendations, and · Endorse the Regional Market Stability report; · Endorse the following short to medium term strategic priorities for Rhondda Cynon Taff arising from the MSR: i. A strategic review of accommodation with care for vulnerable people to ensure future provision is meeting the needs of people with complex needs identified in the MSR and our facilities are fully utilised; ii. Strengthen the Council’s response to meeting its placement sufficiency duty for children looked after by increasing local not-for-profit provision (both residential and fostering) to meet the needs of children closer to home; iii. Work with providers to develop sustainable integrated models of service for community-based services, including domiciliary care, to address workforce pressures; and iv. Increase the availability of respite services for both adults and children. (Note: Councillor M Rees-Jones who had previously declared a personal and prejudicial interest left the meeting for the duration of the item, Minute No.6 refers).
The Presiding Member advised that the Cwm Taf Morgannwg Market Stability Report would be considered at this point and out of sequence with the agenda as the Group Director Community & Children’s Services would leave the meeting as he is referenced in the report of the Director of Human Resources regarding the appointment of the Chief Executive. The Director Community & Children’s Services presented the report which provided an overview of the Market Stability report (MSR) as required under Section 144B of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014. The Local Authorities are under a statutory obligation to produce this assessment every five years and to do so at a regional level in partnership with the Health Board. The Director advised that the report provides an assessment of two things, the sufficiency of care and support in meeting demand in our population and the stability of the market for regulated services providing care. He added that the information, as set out in full in the attached appendices, provides a detailed assessment of the sufficiency and stability across the full range of caring provision covering adults, children, learning disability, mental health, unpaid carers and others. The Director suggested that the key findings and recommendations summarised at section 4 of the report, will need to be considered by the Council and its partners to inform the Commissioning Strategies and Service development over the next five years as well as to inform the regional plan by the Regional Partnership Board. Four key areas were highlighted as areas of focus for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council which are supported by the evidence within the market stability report and as set out at 3.3 of the report. In conclusion, the Director Community & Children’s Services referred Members to the recommendations, particularly that Members endorse the market stability report for submission to Welsh Government in accordance with the Council’s statutory duties. The Service Director Democratic Services & Communication confirmed that at its recent meeting, members of the Overview & Scrutiny determined to undertake pre scrutiny of the matters identified in the Cabinet work programme which relate to residential care. It was RESOLVED to: 1. Note the key messages and recommendations, and · Endorse the Regional Market Stability report; · Endorse the following short to medium term strategic priorities for Rhondda Cynon Taff arising from the MSR: i. A strategic review of accommodation with care for vulnerable people to ensure future provision is meeting the needs of people with complex needs identified in the MSR and our facilities are fully utilised; ii. Strengthen the Council’s response to meeting its placement sufficiency duty for children looked after by increasing local not-for-profit provision (both residential and fostering) to meet the needs of children closer to home; iii. Work with providers to develop sustainable integrated models of service for community-based services, including domiciliary care, to address workforce pressures; and iv. Increase the availability of respite services for both adults and children. (Note: Councillor M Rees-Jones who had previously declared a personal and prejudicial interest left the meeting for the duration of the item, Minute No.6 refers).
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED: 1. To note the contents of the report; and in doing so note the responses to the Elected Members’ Survey in respect of the Timing of Meetings, as outlined in paragraph4. 2. To note the proposed Calendar of Meetings for the Municipal Year 2022 - 2023, as attached at Appendix 1 to thereport; and 3. To note that the draft calendar is subject to change, based upon the demands of business over the coming municipal year. Any changes or additions will be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate committee chairs.
The Service Director Democratic Services presented his report and advised that since the Council AGM, additional information from the Elected Members survey in respect of the timing of meetings has informed the final calendar of meetings, attached at Appendix 1. The Service Director highlighted the key results from the Members survey with regards to the timings of meetings, the level of support available to Members from the Council Business Unit and convening meetings outside of school holidays. He advised that although there is a statutory requirement for the Head of Democratic Services to survey all members in respect of the timing of meetings, the information within the report is not binding and should be used as a guide for committee chairs in respect of the timings of their respective meetings. In conclusion, the Service Director confirmed that a more detailed report will be presented to a future meeting of the Democratic Services Committee to consider the outcome of the responses received as well as a Public Participation Strategy to be published in the autumn. It was advised that there would be a pre council meeting in September with representatives from Trivallis and other similar sessions to be announced in due course. Following consideration of the report it was RESOLVED: 1. To note the contents of the report; and in doing so note the responses to the Elected Members’ Survey in respect of the Timing of Meetings, as outlined in paragraph4. 2. To note the proposed Calendar of Meetings for the Municipal Year 2022 - 2023, as attached at Appendix 1 to thereport; and 3. To note that the draft calendar is subject to change, based upon the demands of business over the coming municipal year. Any changes or additions will be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate committee chairs.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to: 1. Note the draft Work Programme attached as Appendix 1 to the report; and 2. Approve the Work Programme for the 2022-2023 Municipal Year (with appropriate amendments where necessary) and thereafter receive further updates from the Service Director Democratic Services & Communication as appropriate.
The Service Director Democratic Services & Communications presented the Council Work Programme for the 2022/23 Municipal Year advising that any amendments and updates would be reported orally at Council on a monthly basis, including any changes to the agreed work programme. Following consideration of the work programme attached at Appendix 1 and that in addition to the Health Board other outside bodies such as representatives from the Police & Crime Commissioner’s office would be invited to attend council. It was RESOLVED to: 1. Note the draft Work Programme attached as Appendix 1 to the report; and 2. Approve the Work Programme for the 2022-2023 Municipal Year (with appropriate amendments where necessary) and thereafter receive further updates from the Service Director Democratic Services & Communication as appropriate.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to note the information contained within the report.
In accordance with the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules 17.2(a), the Service Director of Democratic Services and Communication presented an overview of the Urgent Decisions taken forward by the Cabinet Committee and Urgent Key Officer Delegated Decisions taken forward outside of the Cabinet Committee during the period during the period January – June 2022. In respect of the Urgent Decision of the Leader taken forward during the period January – June 2022, the Welsh Government cost of living support scheme, the Director of Finance and Digital Services provided an update on the scheme and added that 5,000 reminder letters have been issued to residents to encourage them to apply for the £50 family payment. He confirmed that all the FSM payments had been paid. Following consideration of the report it was RESOLVED to note the information contained within the report.
Through his joint report with the Chief Executive and the Director of Finance & Digital Services, the Director of Human Resources advised of the proposals for change following a recent review of the lower grades of the Council’s Grading Structure and associated terms and conditions. The Director set out the key areas for Members’ attention such as the background and context to the reason for the review and the suggested changes to the grades 1-5. The Director pointed out that the report also recognises that these values if agreed, could change again in light of any national pay award or the uplift to the Real Living Wage the council pays. The Director referenced changes to the terms and conditions such as reinstating the payment of Double Time plus a Day in Lieu for any member of staff that is required to work a bank holiday as well as the increase the mileage rate for all staff to the current HMRC rate of 45p per mile (previously set at 35p per mile). The Director concluded by confirming that every post that sits within each grade as set out at the table in 4.1 of the report is included at Appendix 1. The Leader of the Council commented on the report and the positive impact the review has had on the uplifts in the lower grade points in addition to the reinstatement of double time. (Note: Councillors W Lewis and S Emmanuel having declared a personal and prejudicial interest left the meeting for the duration of the item).
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED – to ratify the recommendation of the Appointments Committee that Mr. Paul Mee be appointed to the post of permanent Chief Executive from the 1st December 2022.
Pursuant to Minute No. 4 of the Council Meeting held on the 25th May 2022, the Director of Human Resources confirmed that following the assessment and interview process, the Appointments Committee determined on the 5th July 2022 to recommend to the Council that Mr. Paul Mee be appointed to the post of Chief Executive was able to confirm the recommendation of the Appointments Committee, held on day two of the process, which was to unanimously recommend Mr Paul Mee to the post of Chief Executive. The Chair of the Appointments Committee, Councillor Ros Davies confirmed that the decision to appoint Mr Paul Mee to the post of Chief Executive had been unanimous. RESOLVED – to ratify the recommendation of the Appointments Committee that Mr. Paul Mee be appointed to the post of permanent Chief Executive from the 1st December 2022.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to note the Section 3A- Leader’s Scheme of Delegation of Executive Functions, which is attached at Appendix 1.
The Service Director Democratic Services & Communication presented the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation of Executive Functions for the 2022/2023 Municipal Year and advised Full Council, for information purposes, of the revised terms of reference for the Welsh Language and Climate Change Cabinet Sub-Committees attached at Appendix 1. The Service Director advised that the two afore-mentioned previous Steering Groups have been revised to become Cabinet Sub-Committees and have delegated authority from the Council Leader to make executive decisions in line with their terms of reference. He added that these revised decision-making arrangements, do not prevent any circumstances where the sub committees, may determine to refer a matter, which of strategic significance, for determination by full Cabinet Committee. The Service Director referred to the advised membership within the scheme and he confirmed that Councillor C Lisles has been nominated by the Group Leader of the RCT Independent Group to the SACRE Committee. It was advised that further details regarding the champions will be provided and circulated in due course. RESOLVED to note the Section 3A- Leader’s Scheme of Delegation of Executive Functions, which is attached at Appendix 1.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to: 1. Agree to advertise the role of Independent (lay) Member on the Council’s Standards Committee, based on the established criteria set out in the report; 2. Agrees to consult with Community Councils in respect of inviting applications from Community Councillors for the vacancy of Community Council Member (plus a reserve) on the Council’s Standards Committee; 3. Subject to 2.1 and 2.2 above, establishes an Appointments Panel to consider applications for the appointment of an Independent Member of the Standards Committee for a term of six years and a Community Council Member (plus reserve) for a term until the next ordinary elections (in 2027); 4 Nominates three County Borough Councillors (2 from the ruling group and 1 from the largest opposition group) and the incumbent Chair of the Standards Committee to be members of the Appointments Panel; 5 Delegates authority to the Director of Legal Services to appoint a Community Councillor to the Appointments Panel; and 6 Subject to the above, agrees to receive a further report and consider any recommendations emanating from the Appointments Panel convened to interview any applicants who apply for the vacant roles.
The Director of Legal Services presented his joint report in respect of the process to be undertaken to fill vacancies that have arisen on the Council’s Standards Committee, specifically an Independent (lay) Member and Community Council representative member (plus reserve). The Director advised that both the term of office of one of the Independent members, Mr. Mel Jehu, and of the Community Council Member, Councillor Ray Butler were both coming to an end and therefore it is necessary to consider the appointment of a new independent member and Community Council member. The Director outlined the proposed appointments procedure in line with that of the Standards Committees (Wales) Regulations 2001 in respect of the Independent Member from advertising the vacancy through to the requirements of the appointments panel. He also informed Council of the procedure to appoint a new Community Council with a recommendation to Full Council in due course. Following consideration of the report it was RESOLVED to: 1. Agree to advertise the role of Independent (lay) Member on the Council’s Standards Committee, based on the established criteria set out in the report; 2. Agrees to consult with Community Councils in respect of inviting applications from Community Councillors for the vacancy of Community Council Member (plus a reserve) on the Council’s Standards Committee; 3. Subject to 2.1 and 2.2 above, establishes an Appointments Panel to consider applications for the appointment of an Independent Member of the Standards Committee for a term of six years and a Community Council Member (plus reserve) for a term until the next ordinary elections (in 2027); 4 Nominates three County Borough Councillors (2 from the ruling group and 1 from the largest opposition group) and the incumbent Chair of the Standards Committee to be members of the Appointments Panel; 5 Delegates authority to the Director of Legal Services to appoint a Community Councillor to the Appointments Panel; and 6 Subject to the above, agrees to receive a further report and consider any recommendations emanating from the Appointments Panel convened to interview any applicants who apply for the vacant roles.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to a) note the content of the report; and b) agree the funding proposals for the Sustainable Communities for Learning programme as set out at section 13. In accordance with the requirements of both the CIPFA Code of Practice on Treasury Management and the CIPFA Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities, the Director of Finance and Digital Services provided Members with information on:-
In accordance with the requirements of both the CIPFA Code of Practice on Treasury Management and the CIPFA Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities, the Director of Finance and Digital Services provided Members with information on: · The Council’s Treasury Management activity during 2021/22; and · The actual Prudential and Treasury Indicators for 2021/22. In advance of setting out the key areas of the report, the Director advised that the Council’s Treasury Management activities are highly regulated and governed by a number of codes of practice and have been reviewed during the last financial year by the former Finance & Performance Scrutiny Committee. He confirmed that the annual report satisfies the requirements of the respective codes to which the council has complied during the year. In conclusion, the Director confirmed that Treasury Management training for Elected Members, will be organised alongside the Governance & Audit Committee in September. Following a discussion, it was RESOLVED to a) note the content of the report; and b) agree the funding proposals for the Sustainable Communities for Learning programme as set out at section 13. In accordance with the requirements of both the CIPFA Code of Practice on Treasury Management and the CIPFA Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities, the Director of Finance and Digital Services provided Members with information on:-
The Presiding Member advised that he considered it appropriate to allow the Urgent Notice of Motion in line with Council Procedure Rule 10.5 on the basis that its content could not be reasonably submitted in advance of the deadline and given the Employee Regional Consultation briefing was held on the 27th June and its purpose would be lost by the September Council meeting.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to adopt the Notice of Motion. (Note: All members of the Plaid Cymru Group, present at the meeting, wished to have their names recorded as voting in favour of the suggested alteration to the Notice of Motion: Councillors K Morgan, S Evans, D Grehan, A Ellis, A Rogers, D Wood and H Gronow).
To consider the under-mentioned Notice of Motion standing in the names of: A. Morgan, M. Webber, L. Addiscott, M. D. Ashford, J. Barton. D. R. Bevan, J. Bonetto, S. Bradwick, J. Brencher, G. Caple, J. Cook, A. Crimmings, S. J. Davies, R. Davis, V. Dunn, E. L. Dunning, J. Edwards, J. A. Elliott, L. Ellis, S. Emanuel, R. Evans, A. S. Fox, R. Harris, S. Hickman, G. Holmes, G. Hopkins, W. Hughes, G. Jones, G. O. Jones, R. R. Lewis, W. Lewis, C. Leyshon, M. Maohoub, C. Middle, N. H. Morgan, S. Morgans, M. A. Norris, D. Owen-Jones, D. Parkin, S. Powderhill, C. Preedy, S. Rees, M. Rees-Jones, A. Roberts, J. Smith, G. Stacey, L. A. Tomkinson, W. Treeby, J. Turner, G. L. Warren, K. Webb, D. Williams, G. E. Williams, R. Williams, T. Williams, R. Yeo. Following the Employee Regional Consultation Briefing, which took place on 27th June, this Council notes: That Local Government has endured central government funding cuts of more than 50% since 2010. This has consequently led to a reduction in funding for Local Government in Wales to the tune of £1bn between 2010 and 2020, with RCT suffering a £95m reduction in revenue funding over this period. Despite these severe cuts imposed by the Westminster Government, Welsh Local Authorities have been afforded some protection by the Welsh Government. This protection has, however, only extended as far as averting crises in the vital frontline services that all residents rely upon. Over the last two years, Councils have led the way in efforts against the Covid-19 pandemic, continuing to provide a huge range of services and essential support for our communities. During this period Local Government has shown more than ever how indispensable it is. But Covid has led to a massive increase in expenditure and loss of income, and as we emerge from the pandemic, Local Authorities and schools need far more support from Westminster Council and school workers kept our communities safe through the pandemic, often putting themselves at considerable risk as they worked to protect public health, provide quality housing, ensure our children continue to be educated, and look after older and vulnerable people. Since 2010, the local government workforce has endured years of pay restraint with the majority of pay points losing 27.5 per cent of their value since 2009/10. Staff are now facing the worst cost of living crisis in a generation, with RPI forecast by the Office for Budgetary Responsibility (OBR) to average at 9.8% across 2022 and currently running at 11.1%. As a result of the cost-of-living crisis, many staff are having to make impossible choices between food, heating and paying for other essentials. This is a terrible situation for anyone to find themselves in. At the same time, workers have experienced ever-increasing workloads and persistent job insecurity. Across the UK, 900,000 jobs have been lost in local government since June 2010 – a reduction of more than 30 per cent. Local government has arguably been hit by more severe job losses than any other part of the public sector. There has been a disproportionate impact on women, with women making up more than three-quarters of the local government workforce. Recent research shows that if the Government were to fully fund the Unions’ 2022 pay claim, around half of the money would be recouped thanks to increased tax revenue, reduced expenditure on benefits and tax credits, and increased consumer spending in the local economy. This Council therefore believes: Our workers are public service super-heroes. They keep our communities clean and safe, look after those in need and keep our towns and cities running. Without the professionalism and dedication of our staff, the Council services our residents rely on would not be deliverable. Local government workers deserve a proper, real-terms pay increase. The Westminster Government needs to take responsibility and fully fund this increase; it should not put the burden on Local Authorities - whose funding has been cut to the bone and who were not offered adequate support by the Westminster Government through the Covid-19 pandemic. In advance of the nearing Autumn Budget and determining funding to be allocated under the Barnett consequential, this Council resolves to: • Support the pay claim submitted by UNISON, GMB and Unite on behalf of Council and school workers, for an increase of £2,000 or RPI (whichever is greater) • Call on the Welsh Local Government Association to make urgent representations to the Westminster Government to fund the NJC pay claim • Write to the Chancellor and Secretary of State to call for a pay increase for local government workers to be funded with new money from central government • Meet with local NJC Union representatives to convey support for the pay claim and consider practical ways in which the Council can support the campaign • Encourage all local government workers to join a union. The following suggested alteration to the Notice of Motion by the Plaid Cymru Group “This Council resolves to write to Welsh Government to ask that they commit to underwrite any pay award that is granted” was not accepted by the mover of the Notice of Motion. Following a discussion, it was RESOLVED to adopt the Notice of Motion. (Note: All members of the Plaid Cymru Group, present at the meeting, wished to have their names recorded as voting in favour of the suggested alteration to the Notice of Motion: Councillors K Morgan, S Evans, D Grehan, A Ellis, A Rogers, D Wood and H Gronow).
Councillors must say when they have a personal link to something being discussed, such as a job, a property or a family member. A prejudicial interest is one strong enough that the councillor usually leaves the room and takes no part.
Declarations are read from the minutes once they are published.
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