Agenda and minutes

To consider the minutes of the previous meeting and update any matters arising

Consideration was given to the minutes of the previous meeting held on 10^th September, 2007.

Resolved:-  That the minutes of the meeting held on 10^th September, 2007, be approved as a correct record.

- referred by Cabinet Minute No. 45 of 5^th September, 2007

In accordance with Minute No. 45 of the 5^th September, 2007 Cabinet meeting, the results of Rotherham Reachout 15 were noted.

The Corporate Consultation Officer reported that Reachout 16 contained questions on climate change.

Resolved:-  That the results of Rotherham Reachout 16 relating to climate change be submitted to the 10^th December Cabinet Member meeting.

To consider the attached reference from the Tourism Panel

Consideration was given to Minute No. 30 of the Tourism Panel held on 17^th September, 2007.

An on-line survey had taken place but it appeared that there had been some problems resulting in a number of responses not being received.  It was not thought that it was a RBT function.

Resolved:-  That the Transformation & Strategic Partnerships Manager look into the issues raised.

To consider the attached report of the Chief Executive, RBT

The Chief Executive, RBT, submitted a report on the progress and performance of RBT for the period August, 2007, with a presentation by the Service Leader, Performance and Improvement, highlighting:-

-              New link with HM Revenues and Customs live within HR and Payroll

-              ICT equipment now received to enable refresh

-              Procurement savings confirmed as £887,000 to 31^st July, 2007

-              RBT shortlisted in the annual Association for Public Excellence awards in the category “Best Efficiency Initiative”

In addition, reference was also made to:-

o             Customer Services/Public Access

o             HR and Payroll

o             ICT

o             Procurement

o             Revenues and Benefits

o             Progress against Corporate initiatives

            -           Equalities and Diversity

            -           Investors in People

            -           Consultation/Complaints

Discussion took place on the report.  The following issues were highlighted:-

-        Sustainable procurement

-        BT had a Sustainable Practice and was commencing carbon footprint analysis for Councils

-        On-line recruitment

-        Client should report on RBT performance

-        Procurement savings

-        BVPI8

-        Exemption from Council Tax for those affected by the recent floods

Resolved:-  (1)  That the report be noted.

(2)  That the Chief Executive, RBT, submit a report to the next meeting on sustainable procurement.

(3)  That the quarterly complaints report be submitted to the 5^th November Cabinet Member meeting.

To consider the minutes of the meeting of the Procurement Panel held on 17 September 2007

Consideration was given to the minutes of a meeting of the Procurement Panel held on 17th September, 2007.

Resolved:-  That the contents of the minutes be noted.

To consider any questions received from Elected Members

Members of the Council had asked questions about the following issues:-

(a) completion of the special school transport contracts

The Procurement Manager was progressing the continuation of the contract.  The Councillor concerned would be informed of the situation.

(b) Broadband

A meeting was to be held shortly of the ICT Group co-ordinating with Members’ requirements.

At a recent Employee Suggestion Scheme Panel, 2 employee suggestions were considered regarding the Rothercard scheme.

Consideration had been given to the suggestions as follows:-

(1)        That a digital photographing service be provided at all issuing centres for Rothercard enabling an applicant’s photo to be printed directly onto the Rothercard at the time of issue.

There were 38 public issuing point across the Borough, together with a number of agencies and groups.  To supply digital cameras at each issuing point, at an approximate cost of £200 each, plus photo paper supplies etc., was not practical.

(2)        That different colours be used for age groups making it easier for staff to recognise the current payments for sessions.

This had initially been rejected on cost and resource grounds.  However, it was felt that the inclusion of date of birth where applicable would address the problem without resorting to multiple coloured cards for each age group.

Resolved:-  (1)  That no further action be taken with the regard to the suggested provision of a digital photographing service at all issuing points.

(2)  That records be amended to include date of birth where applicable i.e. cardholders under 16 years of age, and the cards amended accordingly.

Resolved:-  That the Cabinet Member (or substitute) be authorised to attend the following:-

The Tree Council “A Guide to the Tree Warden Scheme” to be held in London on 16^th October, 2007.

The Local Government Association “Future of Post Office Services” to be held in London on 18^th October, 2007

The Annual General Meeting of Nuclear Free Local Authorities to be held in Dublin on 6^th December, 2007

The Irish and UK Local Authorities Standing Conference on Nuclear Hazards to be held in Dublin on 7^th December, 2007