Issue - meetings

Members gave consideration to a report which sought to extend the contract for the Interim Director of Operational and Commercial Services.

The report offered alternative options and included an analysis of each of the options.

The Monitoring Officer outlined to the Committee arrangements which had been in place since the permanent post holder had left position, why an interim replacement had been sought and the rationale for the recommendation, which was now a three-month extension.

The Interim Chief Executive/Head of Paid Service took opportunity to update Committee on the Waste Service Operational staffing, particularly at a middle management level.  He outlined steps which had been set in motion to address short term operational matters and to ensure longer-term resilience and operational support, short term, should that be required.   Furthermore, should the Interim Director role be extended, as recommended, the brief would be a greater focus on the waste service, given current circumstances, and  a focus on co location of his activity to the Depot.  

Debate ensured during which Members posed a number of questions and sought to understand the reasoning for the arising circumstances.  The timing was of particular concern, noting the national changes due in waste services and the pending decisions which would need to be made.

These were responded to accordingly.

Again, the actions set in motion were outlined, the findings of the Peer Challenge highlighted and a re-alignment of key projects in the portfolio to allow a greater focus on waste short term outlined.

As a result of views expressed, it was suggested that the current post holder could prepare a briefing for Members on key activities and achievements in the Portfolio.

Furthermore, it was suggested an information and familiarisation of Waste Services activities session for Members at the Depot, including a “get to know you session”, in an informal setting, may be helpful.  The suggestion was welcomed by Members, with the Interim Chief Executive undertaking to the develop the idea further.

On that basis having been proposed and seconded, on being put to the vote it was: -

RESOLVED that contract for the interim Director of Operational and Commercial Services be extended for a further three months until 14 February 2026.