Agenda and minutes

That the Minutes of the previous meetings of Cabinet Scrutiny Committee, held on 20 February and 6 March, 2019, be approved.

Committee scrutinised the following Cabinet items:

Digital Delivery Programme - Initial Phase

Members received a presentation from the Head of ICT on the Digital Delivery Programme of the Council.

Members emphasised that Councillors would still need to have direct contact with officers as well as the public, and be able to give feedback. Officers clarified that feedback from Councillors would be key.

It was noted that training would be critical and that staff would still be needed for face to face interactions, despite advancements in digital technology.

Officers informed scrutiny members that a report would be presented within the next 12 months focusing on the changes following the centralisation of the One Stop Shop within Neath Civic Centre.

The advantages and disadvantages of staff working from home was discussed, and Members noted that 30% of office space had already been removed in recent years.

As this was his last meeting of the scrutiny committee, officers and Members wished the Head of ICT a very happy, healthy and long retirement.

Following scrutiny, the committee was supportive of the proposals to be considered by Cabinet.

Council Tax Exemption - Discount For Care Leavers

Members discussed the additional financial responsibility placed on the Council following the introduction of new Welsh Government legislation to exempt or provide a discount to care leavers up to the age of 24, in relation to the payment of Council Tax.

Following scrutiny the report was noted.

The committee noted the forward work programme for 2018/19.