Issue - meetings

Members heard from the Senior Democratic and Civic Officer, who highlighted the previous reports presented to the Committee in February 2024 and February 2025 regarding the provision of the civic car. She explained that the review of civic transport arrangements had been undertaken since the previous report earlier in the year, and noted that having regard to the limited use of the vehicle, the operational requirements associated with employment of a chauffeur, and management and maintenance of the vehicle, the report recommended option one, that being to dispose of the civic car.

The Committee expressed their full support for the recommendation, highlighting the need to make savings where possible and the fact that the vehicle was rarely used. The Chairman of the Council stated his support, noting the arrangements which he had used to good effect.

In response to a question regarding the much reduced number of civic events compared to times gone by, it was explained that the covid-19 pandemic had put a stop to a great number of events, with civic offices across the country simply not returning to pre-pandemic levels of business. The cost of living crisis was also attributed, with councils unable to afford, or justify the costs, of many civic functions.

Having been proposed and seconded, and on taking the vote, it was unanimously

RESOLVED that the civic car be sold and proceeds from the sale be held in an earmarked reserve, and Officers undertake to arrange civic transport for the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Council on an ‘as required’ basis. Use of the earmarked reserve to be reviewed in line with current Financial Procedure Rules.