The Council is requested to consider the recommendation from Policy and Resources Committee of 17 February, 2021, in respect of the procedure to be adopted for this extraordinary meeting of Council, as specified in appendix A to the report of the Director Law and Governance.

Minute and report attached.  

The Council was then invited to consider the recommendation from the Policy and Resources Committee meeting of 17 February 2021, in respect of the procedure to be adopted for this extraordinary meeting of the Council.

On a motion by Councillor Janette Williamson, seconded by Councillor Jeff Green, it was –

Resolved – That, for the duration of this extraordinary meeting of 1 March 2021 (Budget Council):

(a)  the procedure attached as Appendix A to the report, be followed in respect of the meeting; and

(b)  Council Standing Order 15.4 (timing of speeches) be suspended together with such other standing orders as may conflict with the Budget Council procedure or the Mayor’s administration of the meeting, in such a manner as the Mayor in his or her absolute discretion dictates, to ensure the objective of Council setting a lawful budget and council tax requirement prevails.

Philip McCourt, Director of Law and Governance, introduced a report on a proposed process for the Budget decision making meeting of Council.

In response to Members’ comments he confirmed that a positive vote in favour of a budget proposal would be required of the Budget Council meeting.

RECOMMENDED – To Council, that for the duration of the extraordinary meeting of 1 March 2021 (Budget Council):

(a)  the procedure attached as Appendix A to the report, be followed in respect of the meeting; and

(b)  Council Standing Order 15.4 (timing of speeches) be suspended together with such other standing orders as may conflict with the Budget Council procedure or the Mayor’s administration of the meeting, in such a manner as the Mayor in his or her absolute discretion dictates, to ensure the objective of Council setting a lawful budget and council tax requirement prevails.