From November the Parish Council will commence a six-month trial to hold its formal Council meetings bi-monthly, with some exceptions as detailed on the table shown.
At the time of writing the Parish Council had over 55 formal meetings per year. In addition to formal meetings, there is an extensive portfolio of Working Party meetings which are dedicated to progressing start/stop projects such as Play Area Refurbishments, Budget Setting and Wildflowers, Trees & Bulbs.
The meeting cycle was continuous, and the intensity represented a significant resource implication for the Clerks and other team members who must attend and/or contribute towards them. Not to mention the impact on the Councillors’ time too. Our most active Councillors were often attending several meetings per week. Also, there were times when, because of the quick turnaround, there was not sufficient time between meetings for stakeholders to provide the necessary updates to present to a meeting.
This trial period of reduced meetings allows more time to follow up on the meeting actions, have sufficient time to make the necessary investigations and prepare the reports for future meetings. Furthermore, as part of the trial all Planning & Highways matters will be discussed at Full Council.
The updated meeting calendar can be seen by clicking here.
If you have any questions regarding this trial period, please contact the Chief Officer: clerk@haydonwick.gov.uk