Decision details

The Monitoring Officer submitted a report to inform members about the recruitment process for Independent Persons, who are consulted during the councillor complaints process, and to seek approval for these appointments.

The applicants were interviewed by the Monitoring Officer and the Chair of the Standards and Audit Committee and both were recommended for appointment as Independent Persons. The Standards and Audit Committee considered this report on 26 September 2014 and the recommendations were approved (Minute 15 (2014/15)).

Alternative options considered included only appointing one Independent Person or the recruitment of additional Independent Persons. It was agreed that appointing more than one Independent Person would help prevent potential conflicts arising. Further recruitment would be considered again in the future if necessary.

* RESOLVED –

That it be recommended to Full Council that those applicants recommended by the Chair of Standards and Audit Committee and Monitoring Officer be appointed as Independent Persons for the purpose of being consulted and giving their views on complaints about councillors.

REASON FOR DECISION

To enable the Council to operate the ethical standards system effectively and as required by the law.

Meetings

Standards & Audit Committee

Assistant Executive Member – Governance & Organisational Development