The Policy & Engagement Officer introduced the Area Committees Review report as set out in the agenda papers.

The Chief Executive reported that the Policy & Engagement Officer and Members of the working group had worked hard to produce the consultation and report.  She said it was disappointing to note that there had been such a poor response from Members to the consultation.  She stated that if Members wanted the Area Committees to be a success, it was incumbent on Members to engage.

The Chair invited Members to make comments, and points raised included:

·         Welcomed the report and asked that, ‘Chair’s Update’ be added as an agenda item;

·         supported using the Committee Room, Swale House as a permanent venue for the Sittingbourne and the Western Area Committee meeting as moving venues could be disruptive;

·         it was not about the venue but what was on the agenda;

·         welcomed the name change as it made it clearer for local residents;

·         it was incumbent on borough councillors to attend the meetings;

·         the meetings could undertake collaborative working with local businesses etc;

·         there may be less attendance at the Western Committee if Committee Room, Swale House, was the venue;

·         some of the village halls did not have very good wifi;

·         welcomed the removal of the December round of meetings;

·         fully supported proposal 3.6;

·         could residents be invited to add potential agenda items?;

·         it made sense to hold the Sittingbourne and the Western Area Committees at the same venue;

·         important to share the information/minutes of the meetings with local Parish and Town Councils; and

·         thanked officers and Members for their hard work on the report.

Councillor Wise proposed the recommendations, which were seconded by Councillor Martin.

Resolved:

(1)   That the recommendations proposed by the Area Committees Review Member Working Group be agreed.

(2)   That recommendation 3.9 on voting arrangements be referred to the Constitution Working Group.

Recommendation to Council:

(1)   That the recommendations proposed by the Area Committees Review Member Working Group be agreed.