Agenda and decisions

1.1    That the minutes of the meeting held on 1 December be agreed as an accurate record.

There are none.

That the Committee would refer its views to Mayor and Cabinet as follows –

·         The Committee recognises the difficult task facing officers in bringing forward cuts proposals, especially in the context of ongoing economic uncertainty and a prolonged period of austerity.

·         Members welcome the comments of the Sustainable Development Select Committee – particularly in relation to the ‘theme D’ asset optimisation proposals. Members would welcome further careful, strategic consideration of the approach to the use of Council assets - in order to maximise both the social and economic benefits for the people of Lewisham.

·         The Committee recommends that – in relation to proposal E-15 (seek corporate sponsorship for festive lights) the initial approach should be to the providers of the Council’s current street lighting private finance initiative.

That the report be noted.

That the report be noted.

That the Committee would refer its views to Mayor and Cabinet as follows –

·         The Committee wishes to place on record its thanks and appreciation for the hard work and dedication of Council officers. In particular, it recognises the level of dedication, professionalism and determination demonstrated by officers in the Corporate Resources Directorate, led commendably by Kathy Freeman (Executive Director for Corporate Resources) and supported by the Directors of Finance and the Head of Strategic Finance. Members recognise the difficult task facing officers in producing a well-considered and balanced budget in the context of uncertainty and ongoing austerity. The Committee asks Mayor and Cabinet to recognise and thank all of the officers who contributed to the delivery of the budget report.

·         The Committee recommends that further detail should be provided to Mayor and Cabinet on the possible unallocated budget pressures arising from the Council’s response to the pandemic (and its associated consequences). It notes that there is the potential for significant overspending across a number of services. And, whilst officers’ intended approach to monitoring and managing these risks is acknowledged – the Committee believes that the budget report should further highlight and delineate the potential for significant in-year pressures and overspending, should the ongoing impact of the pandemic be greater than anticipated or healthcare partners unable to assume responsibility for the costs.

That the Chair would work with the Executive Director to finalise the work programme for the next meeting. And – that Councillor Royston be appointed as the Committee’s climate emergency champion.