Minutes:
We received the Action List from the meeting held on the 15th September 2016. In doing so, the following points were noted:
· Chepstow School: The Chief Officer for Resources provided a summary of the response circulated to Committee Members regarding the issue raised by a member of the public, and questions raised by Councillor Easson.
The response regarding the first point regarding the reduction of FTE teaching posts at the school was accepted as satisfactory.
Regarding the decision to opt out of the HR services offered by the Authority in favour of engaging the services of Judicium Consulting Limited, a Member queried why two schools had decided on one company. It was added that whilst it was appreciated that Governors have the right to make such a decision, concern was expressed that this was gradual move towards academy status and a gradual erosion of the Authority’s HR services which work very well with schools and members. It was suggested that the situation should be monitored.
With regard to the third point, the Member said that he was satisfied that remedial action had been taken and that appropriate advice had been provided for the future.
A Member queried if any savings have been made in the People Services Department given that two of the Authority's secondary schools had opted out of services.
In response to queries, it was explained that the resulting income shortfall is being managed internally adding that there are significant pressures on the People Services Team currently and savings are not being considered at this time. Members were made aware that there is a review of Corporate HR and also a review of the HR school support function. The latter in response to the decision of Chepstow School and Monmouth Comprehensive School to opt out.
Members were reminded that there are only two FTE HR Officers to provide support to the remaining secondary schools and all primary schools. It was explained that the purpose of the review is to explore if the service offered is fit for purpose, if the service is still offered, if schools want the service, and if the use of outside providers should be considered. The options will be considered in consultation with schools and conclusions will be drawn accordingly.
· Redundancy costs: The Chief Officer for Resources agreed to present the requested information at the next meeting, apologising that the report had been delayed due to pressures within the Payroll Team and added that a report will be presented to Cabinet to request investment in the Team.
· Non-domestic rates: The requested analysis was provided to the committee on the 21st September 2016. It was questioned what representations are being made outside the authority regarding the level of non-domestic rates in the County. In response to a query about increasing business rates, it was suggested that it would be appropriate for the Assistant Head of Finance (Revenues) to provide clarification regarding processes to facilitate rate valuations for private businesses separate to this meeting.
· Internal Audit Contract Procedure Rules – Exemptions: It was noted that this item would be considered at the next meeting as part of the regular six monthly review cycle.
· Internal Audit Charter: It was confirmed that the amendment requested at the last meeting, to specify two years as the review period, had been made.