13 December 2018: Highland Council

Agenda

Read the Agenda

A meeting of the Highland Council will be held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Thursday, 13 December 2018 at 10.35am.

Webcast Notice: This meeting will be filmed and broadcast over the Internet on the Highland Council website and will be archived and available for viewing for 12 months thereafter.

You are invited to attend the meeting and a note of the business to be considered is attached.

Yours faithfully

Stewart Fraser
Head of Corporate Governance

BUSINESS

1. Calling of the Roll and Apologies for Absence
A’ Gairm a’ Chlàir agus Leisgeulan

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

Members are asked to consider whether they have an interest to declare in relation to any item on the agenda for this meeting. Any Member making a declaration of interest should indicate whether it is a financial or non-financial interest and include some information on the nature of the interest. Advice may be sought from Officers prior to the meeting taking place.

3. Membership of the Council
Ballrachd na Comhairle

Confirmation will follow in regard to the result of the By-Election for Ward 5 (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh) which is to be held on Thursday, 6 December 2018.

4. Presentation on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) – Director of Public Health
Taisbeanadh mu Eòlasan Leanabachd Mì-fhàbharach – Stiùiriche Slàinte Phoblach

A Presentation will be undertaken at the meeting by Dr Van Woerden, Director of Public Health on the Annual Report for 2018. In this connection, the Annual Report has been circulated separately and can be read in full at:-

www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk/Publications/Documents/DPH-Annual-Report-2017_(web-version).pdf

5. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Aware Council
Eòlasan Leanabachd Mì-fhàbharach

There is circulated Report No HC/48/18 dated 5 December 2018 by the Interim Director of Care and Learning.

The Council is asked to note the report and the work currently undertaken by Highland Council Care and Learning Service and how this contributes to becoming an ACE-Aware Council.

6. Confirmation of Minutes
Daingneachadh a’ Gheàrr-chunntais

There are submitted for confirmation as a correct record the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Council held on 23 October and of the Meeting held on 25 October 2018 as contained in the Volume which has been circulated separately.

7. Minutes of Meetings of Committees
Geàrr-chunntasan Choinneamhan Chomataidhean

There are submitted for confirmation as correct records, for information as regards delegated business and for approval as appropriate, the Minutes of Meetings of Committees contained in Volume circulated separately as undernoted:-

Ross & Cromarty Committee, 1 November
*Lochaber Area Committee, 7 November
Environment, Development & Infrastructure Committee, 8 November
Badenoch & Strathspey Area Committee, 14 November
Sutherland County Committee, 15 November
Caithness Committee, 20 November
Corporate Resources Committee, 21 November
City of Inverness Area Committee, 22 November
Nairnshire Committee, 28 November
Audit & Scrutiny Committee, 29 November
Isle of Skye and Raasay Committee, 3 December
Care, Learning & Housing Committee, 6 December

8. Highland and Western Isles Valuation Joint Board
Co-Bhòrd Luachaidh na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean Siar

There are circulated for information Minutes of Meeting of the Valuation Joint Board held on 13 September 2018 (approved by the Board on 20 November 2018).

9. Health and Social Care Working Group
Buidheann-obrach Slàinte agus Cùraim Shòisealta

There will follow for approval Minutes of Meeting of the Health and Social Care Working Group held on 28 November 2018.

10. Membership of Committees, etc
Ballarachd Chomataidhean, msaa

Members are asked to note that confirmation will follow in regard to the new political make-up of the Council following the result of the By-Election for Ward 5 (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh) and any changes necessary in regard to membership of Committees, etc.

Following the resignation of Mr A Baxter as the Chair of Care, Housing and Learning, the Administration will move that Mr J Finlayson should be appointed as Chair of the committee.

Members are also asked to note/agree the following –

Care, Learning and Housing Committee – Mr R Bremner to replace Ms P Munro

Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee – Mr K Rosie to replace Ms M Smith

South Planning Applications Committee (Sub – Ward 12) – Mrs H Carmichael to replace Ms E Knox

Highland Historic Buildings Trust - Mr A Henderson to replace Mrs M Paterson

NHS Highland Health and Social Care Committee - a nomination will be tabled for approval to replace Ms K Stephen

11. COSLA Executive Board Membership
Ballrachd Bòrd-gnìomha COSLA

The Council is asked to agree the following revisions to the COSLA Executive Board membership:-

Health and Social Care Board – Mrs I Campbell to replace Ms K Stephen

Children & Young People Board – Mr J Finlayson to replace Mr A Baxter

Items 12 and 13 (below) will be considered at 2.00pm.

12. Question Time
Am Ceiste

The following Questions have been received by the Head of Corporate Governance:-

(i) Mr J McGillivray

To the Leader of the Council

“As reported to the Resources Committee the total outstanding debt at 31 March 2014 was £743,000,000 and the loan charges incurred over the year were £33,400,000. At 31 March 2018, as reported to the Corporate Resources Committee, the total outstanding debt was £1,080,000,000 (an increase of 45.35%) and the loan charges incurred over the year amounted to £36,000,000 (an increase of 9.09%). It is clear that total debt has increased significantly over the last five years, and the corresponding low level of loan charges suggest capital repayments have been kept to a minimum.

Would the Leader of the Administration agree that this trend is deeply concerning on the grounds that:

(i) these significant loan charges result in a top slicing of income by significant amounts that could otherwise be released for the benefit of the Highlands as a whole;
(ii) the accumulation of significant levels of debt will fall to future generations to repay; and
(iii) and what proposals are being considered to reduce the overall debt burden which Highland Council currently bears?”
The response is circulated

Mr McGillivray will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(ii) Mr A Jarvie

To the Leader of the Council

“How exactly do you plan for the public views gathered through this consultation period to be incorporated into setting the budget next year?”

The response is circulated

Mr Jarvie will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(iii) Mr A Jarvie

To the Leader of the Council

“The Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan marks out allocations IN43 and 50 for 401 houses. With planning permission routinely granting 25% over allocation, this will most likely be at least 500 houses.

The Council's own methodology would predict 120 extra primary children for 400 houses, yet over 10 years the roll forecast for the affected schools shows a net increase of only 19 children. We risk having over 100 children who we have not been accounted for in schools which are already past 100% capacity.

Why do the roll forecasts continually fall short of reality and how does the IMFLDP allocations not seem to match up with roll forecasts?”

The response is circulated

Mr Jarvie will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(iv) Mr K Gowans

To the Leader of the Council

“Over a period of several months several parents and parent councils have raised concerns regarding what they perceive as anomalies in their Flexible Childcare invoices and statements. Many of these reports cite instances where invoices/statements are issued many months in arrears and are very difficult to understand. Parents have also claimed that Highland Council customer service representatives do not appear to be familiar with the systems.

This has resulted in lack of confidence in the system amongst parents who are paying for the services and the number of overpaid by significant amounts but met with resistance when he tried to claim the overpayments back from Highland Council.

Do you feel that the Flexible Childcare accounting and reporting systems used by Highland Council are in need of an urgent review?”

The response is circulated

Mr Gowans will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(v) Mr K Gowans

To the Leader of the Council

“During the last Council, it was originally estimated that £43 million would be required to alleviate the unplanned roll pressures faced by the Inverness schools. Roll pressures that are largely due in part to inadequate analysis of demographics, unsustainable development, lack of infrastructure and inadequate levels of developer contributions, especially for education.
Approximately two years ago officers revealed to the Care, Learning and Housing Committee the original estimate of £43 million was unrealistic and was then estimated to be £200 million. Clearly, such an unexpected budget pressure impacts on all areas of Highland Council.

Inexplicably, no reports have been presented to either Full Council or Care Learning and Housing Committee, or the City of Inverness Area Committee on this substantive issue for well over a year. Yet Inverness Members have been invited to attend private Members’ briefings to advise them of the measures proposed to mitigate these roll pressures.

Given the time lapse, inflation, interest rate increases etc., and the absence of reporting to Members, can you advise all Members of this Council if this figure of £200 million has been reviewed since it was last reported to the Council and if so, what is the new figure?”

The response is circulated

Mr Gowans will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(vi) Mr D Louden

To the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee

“Now that there has been an announcement of £1bn for the Scottish Futures Trust, could the Chair of Corporate Resources, guarantee that the Council will progress the preparation of “shovel ready” projects timeously to enable us to bid into the new fund?”

The response is circulated

Mr Louden will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee.

(vii) Mr D Louden

To Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee

“What steps has the Council taken to ensure that fish landed at our harbours will have the correct paperwork for ease of access to the continent after Brexit?”

The response is circulated

Mr Louden will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee.

(viii) Mr D MacLeod

To the Leader of the Council

"What was the outcome of her talks held with the Transport Minister, Mr Michael Matheson, on 29 November 2018 to discuss a permanent solution to the Stromeferry Bypass issue? And to ask what specific measures both the Scottish Government and the Highland Council have agreed to pursue in respect of finding a permanent solution following these talks?"

The response is circulated

Mr MacLeod will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(ix) Ms M Smith

To Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee

“There are proposals in Ross and Cromarty to charge for some car parking in different areas. This is on the premise that the relevant community will receive a large percentage of the income generated from the car park charges. This was agreed in a previous committee and now needs to be confirmed as to the exact percentage split. Please provide me with the figure that the Administration is proposing?”

The response is circulated

Ms Smith will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee.

(x) Ms M Smith

To the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee

“Could I have a list of the vacancies the Council currently holds with an indication of the length of time they have been vacant?”

The response is circulated

Ms Smith will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee.

(xi) Mr R MacWilliam

To the Leader of the Council

“Has the Leader had a reply to her letter to Scottish Ministers on the completion date of the £3billion A9 dualling project?”

The response is circulated

Mr MacWilliam will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(xii) Mr R MacWilliam

To the Leader of the Council

“Does the Leader anticipate maximising the Highland Council allocation of Scottish Government affordable housing programme funds for 2018/19?”

The response is circulated

Mr MacWilliam will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

(xiii) Ms P Munro

To the Leader of the Council

“It is noted that the current waiting list for school age children to be referred to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) is now in the region of two years. It is crucial that our vulnerable young people are able to get a diagnosis at the earliest opportunity. Therefore, can I please have assurances that the Leader will immediately address the unacceptable delays for referrals to this and other mental health services within our school system?”

The response is circulated

Ms Munro will be entitled to ask a supplementary question which will be answered by the Leader.

13. Notices of Motion
Brathan Gluasaid

The following Notices of Motion have been received in accordance with Standing Order 12:-

(i) Regional Workforce Recruitment Strategy: Highland Council recognises that the Highland economy and public services are reliant on inward migration for recruitment; proposes the formation of a joint working group with HIE, NHS Highland and representatives of Highland industry to develop a regional workforce recruitment strategy to avert a crisis in recruitment in the event of ending free movement for EU nationals as a result of Brexit.

Signed: Mr R MacWilliam Mrs M Cockburn

(ii) ACE Aware Child Bereavement Services: That Highland Council recognises that childhood bereavement is an adverse childhood experience (ACE); notes with alarm that 67% of school exclusions are attributable to young people who have lost a parent or sibling and that research suggests multiple poor outcomes in later life for bereaved children; believes that Highland Council as an ‘ACE-aware’ Council has a duty to engage with all support services to improve outcomes for all children, and will prioritise bereavement services for children as part of a wider review of service improvements for those who have suffered bereavement.

Signed: Mr R MacWilliam Ms K Currie

(iii) Highland Council supports proposals currently being developed by NHS Highland and local stakeholders to ensure refurbishment and redesign of Caithness General Hospital and the creation of health care hubs in Wick and Thurso, recognising that these measures retain existing local services whilst offering a sustainable model to further develop and enhance local provision. Caithness Members will continue to work with NHS Highland and stakeholders to provide more local clinics, reduce unnecessary travel and address ongoing concerns regarding maternity services.

Signed: Mr K Rosie Mr Raymond Bremner Ms N Sinclair Mr M Reiss

(iv) Highland Council will seek to identify and address local and regional transport needs to enable input on the national transport strategy.

Signed: Mr K Rosie Mr R Bremner

14. Annual Review of The Council Programme
Prògram na Comhairle

There is circulated Report No. HC/49/18 dated 1 December 2018 by the Chief Executive.

The Council is asked to agree:-

i. the revised commitments under the six priority themes at Appendix 1 (copy to follow) to the report;
ii. the development of the Corporate Plan with key outcomes linked to robust target setting to be submitted to Council for Members’ approval in the New Year; and
iii. a two day all-Member seminar to be held in January 2019.

15. Your Voice: Budget Engagement and Financial Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Bhuidseat

There is circulated Report No. HC/50/18 by the Chief Executive and Depute Chief Executive.

The Council is asked to:-

i. note the very positive contributions and the significant effort made by communities, staff and Members to the budget engagement process in the month of November; and
ii. agree to a Members’ seminar in January 2019 to take forward the matters raised into clear actions which will then be incorporated into the February budget paper.

16. Options for Funding Future Highland Tourism Development: A Transient Visitor Levy
Cìs Neach-tadhail Sealach

There is circulated Report No. HC/51/18 dated 5 December 2018 by the Director of Development & Infrastructure.

The Council is asked to:-

i. note the range of factors that would need consideration in deciding whether and how to implement a Transient Visitor Levy; and
ii. approve the proposal that the Council should carry out a public consultation on the implementation of a Transient Visitor Levy as described in section 7 of the report.

17. Redesign of Highland Council – Progress Report
Ath-dhealbhadh Chomhairle na Gaidhealtachd – Aithisg Adhartais

There is circulated Report No. HC/52/18 dated 4 December 2018 by the Chief Executive.

There are also circulated Minutes of Meeting of the Redesign Board held on 13 November 2018
The Council is asked to:-

i. approve the Minutes of the Redesign Board;
ii. note progress on Council Redesign work;
iii. approve the recommendations of the Trade Services Peer Review; and
iv. agree that the Redesign Board should continue to oversee the delivery and implementation of three specific recommendations in the short term which will assist with the delivery of savings, with increased efficiency of operation and with the development of the in-house capability for trade services for both Council housing and other property. These are:

A Lean review into housing and property repairs processes;
The development of a trial to pilot more effective joint working between Community Services and Development & Infrastructure; and
The procurement of a new framework for trade services.

18. Inverness and Highland City Region Deal Annual Report
Cùmhnant Roinne/Baile

There is circulated Report No. HC/53/18 dated 3 December 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

The Council is asked to:-

i. note progress with the City Region Deal during 2018; and
ii. approve the publication of the report on the Council’s website.

19. Member Attendance at Meetings
Làthaireachd Bhall aig Coinneamhan

The Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 requires that if a Member of a Local Authority fails, throughout a period of six consecutive months, to attend any meeting of the Authority, they shall, unless the failure was due to some reason approved by the Authority, cease to be a Member of that Authority.

Mr Blair Allan has, because of illness, been unable to attend meetings of the Council since 28 June 2018. As this may continue beyond the six months stipulated in the Act, the Council is required to approve his absence because of illness to enable him to continue as a Member of the Authority.

The Council is therefore asked to approve Mr Allan’s absence as a result of illness on the basis that the position will be reviewed following a further three month period and an update provided for the meeting on 7 March 2019 if necessary.

20. Timetable of Meetings
Clàr-ama Choinneamhan

Members are asked to agree the following changes to the timetable of meetings -

North Planning Applications Committee – to now be held on 9 April 2019 (instead of 16 April 2019).

21. Deeds Executed
Sgrìobhainnean Lagha a Bhuilicheadh

Members are asked to note that a list of deeds and other documents executed on behalf of the Council since the meeting held on 25 October 2018 is available in the Members’ Library and on the Council’s Website.

Read the Supplementary Agenda

In relation to the agenda and papers circulated for the above Meeting of the Highland Council, please find attached the following:-

AGENDA ITEM 3

Membership of the Council
Ballrachd na Comhairle

The Council is advised that, following the By-Election held on Thursday, 6 December 2018, Mr A MacInnes, Proterra, Achintraid, Kishorn, Nr Strathcarron, Wester Ross, IV54 8XB has been elected as a Member of Ward 5 (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh).

AGENDA ITEM 7

Minutes of Meetings of Committees
Geàrr-chunntasan Choinneamhan Chomataidhean

There are circulated Minutes of Meetings which it was indicated would follow:-

Audit & Scrutiny Committee, 29 November
Isle of Skye and Raasay Committee, 3 December
Care, Learning & Housing Committee, 6 December

AGENDA ITEM 9

Health and Social Care Working Group
Buidheann-obrach Slàinte agus Cùraim Shòisealta

There is circulated for approval Minutes of Meeting of the Health and Social Care Working Group held on 28 November 2018.

AGENDA ITEM 10

Membership of Committees, etc
Ballarachd Chomataidhean, msaa

Members are advised that, following the By-Election for Ward 5, the political make-up of the Council is now as follows:-

Independent – 27/SNP – 20/Scottish Conservatives – 11/Liberal Democrat – 9/Labour – 3/Green Party – 1/Sutherland Independent – 1/Non-Aligned – 2

The formula in respect of the number of places on Strategic Committees is now 10/7/4/3/1.

In this regard, revised Committee Membership tables will follow.

AGENDA ITEM 14

Annual Review of the Council Programme
Prògram na Comhairle

There is circulated Appendix 1 to Report No. HC/49/18 dated 1 December 2018 by the Chief Executive.

Yours faithfully

Stewart Fraser
Head of Corporate Governance

Read the Supplementary Agenda 2

In relation to the agenda and papers circulated for the above Meeting of the Highland Council, please find attached the following:-

AGENDA ITEM 10

Membership of Committees, etc
Ballarachd Chomataidhean, msaa

There are circulated revised Committee Membership tables which it was indicated would follow.

Yours faithfully

Stewart Fraser
Head of Corporate Governance

Minutes

Read the Minutes (Items 1-14)

Minutes of Meeting of the Highland Council held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Thursday, 13 December 2018 at 10.35am.

1. Calling of the Roll and Apologies for Absence
A’ Gairm a’ Chlàir agus Leisgeulan

Present:
Mr G Adam, Mr R Balfour, Mrs J Barclay, Mr A Baxter, Mr B Boyd, Mr R Bremner, Mr I Brown, Mr J Bruce, Mrs C Caddick, Miss J Campbell, Mrs I Campbell, Mrs G Campbell-Sinclair, Mr A Christie, Dr I Cockburn, Mrs M Cockburn, Ms K Currie, Mrs M Davidson, Mr J Finlayson, Mr M Finlayson, Mr C Fraser, Mr L Fraser, Mr R Gale, Mr J Gordon, Mr K Gowans, Mr A Graham, Mr J Gray, Ms P Hadley, Mr T Heggie, Mr A Henderson, Mr A Jarvie, Ms E Knox, Mr R Laird, Mr B Lobban, Mr D Louden, Mrs L MacDonald, Mr R MacDonald, Mr A MacInnes, Mrs D Mackay, Mr D Mackay, Mr W MacKay (V/C), Mr G MacKenzie, Mrs I MacKenzie, Mr S Mackie, Mr A Mackinnon, Mrs A MacLean, Mr C MacLeod, Mr D MacLeod, Mr D Macpherson, Mr R MacWilliam, Mrs B McAllister, Mr J McGillivray (V/C), Mr N McLean, Mr H Morrison, Ms L Munro, Mrs P Munro, Mrs M Paterson, Mr I Ramon, Mr M Reiss, Mr A Rhind (am only), Mr D Rixson, Mrs F Robertson, Mrs T Robertson, Mr K Rosie, Mr G Ross, Mr P Saggers, Mr A Sinclair, Ms N Sinclair, Mr C Smith, Ms M Smith, Mr B Thompson, and Ms C Wilson (am only).

Also in Attendance:
Miss E Leitch, Youth Convener

In Attendance:
Chief Executive
Depute Chief Executive/Director of Corporate Resources
Director of Development & Infrastructure
Interim Director of Care & Learning
Director of Community Services

Mr B Lobban in the Chair

1. Calling the Roll and Apologies for Absence
A’ Gairm a’ Chlàir agus Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr B Allan, Mrs H Carmichael and Mr G Cruickshank.

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Council NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 5 – Mr A Christie (Financial)
Item 9 – Mr A Christie (Financial)
Item 16 – Mr G Adam, Mr R Bremner, Mrs I Campbell, Mrs C Caddick, Mr A Henderson, Mr R MacDonald, Mrs I Mackenzie, Mr C MacLeod, Mr H Morrison (all Financial) and Mr J Gordon (Financial and Non-Financial)
Item 17 – Mr L Fraser and Mr D Rixson (Non-Financial)
Item 18 – Mr A Christie (Financial)

Prior to the commencement of formal business the Convener drew attention to the talent, skills and dedication of all Highland Council staff. He highlighted the excellent work being undertaken, which was not only achieving significant financial savings but also leading the way nationally and reinforcing the Council’s reputation across Scotland as a forward thinking and proactive local authority. The Convener listed a number of staff achievements/awards both at a national and UK level and detailed a number of collaborative initiatives being undertaken with partner organisations to deliver higher quality services for the Highlands. The Convener expressed appreciation and congratulated all staff for contributing to the success of the Council and this was supported by the Council.

In conclusion, on behalf of the Council, the Convener welcomed Ms Donna Manson, Chief Executive to her first meeting of the Council in her new role.

3. Membership of the Council
Ballrachd na Comhairle

Members were advised that, following the By-Election held on Thursday, 6 December 2018, Mr A MacInnes, Proterra, Achintraid, Kishorn, Nr Strathcarron, Wester Ross, IV54 8XB had been elected as a Member of Ward 5 (Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh).

In this regard, Mr MacInnes was welcomed to the Council and responded accordingly.

4. Presentation on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) – Director of Public Health
Taisbeanadh mu Eòlasan Leanabachd Mì-fhàbharach – Stiùiriche Slàinte Phoblach

A presentation was undertaken by Dr Van Woerden, Director of Public Health on the Annual Report for 2018. Issues covered included the following:-

the estimated prevalence of adverse childhood events in NHS Highland;
resilience came from an ability to biologically and psychologically adapt to stress;
toxic stress and its impact on children’s ability to learn;
the long term health impacts of ACEs;
resilience could be improved later in life with support;
a ‘cluster’ effect was sometimes observed where children were affected by a variety of ACEs;
the role of the public and third sectors to develop ‘trauma-informed’ services, for example language use and making people feel safe, and the need for cultural changes;
the importance of preventative work through investment in early years;
the risks and benefits around routinely enquiring about childhood adversity; and
the importance of creating resilient and compassionate communities.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

the report was welcomed by Members;
attention was drawn to the value of changing language, for example asking ‘what happened to you?’ instead of ‘what’s wrong with you?’, and referring to ‘survivors’ rather than ‘victims’;
a useful seminar had been held the previous evening for Members on the subject, and reference was made to the important work that was already ongoing to tackle ACEs;
there were more ACEs than the ten listed and all should be acknowledged in conversations;
individual responsibility within communities for children who might be suffering or at risk was emphasised;
it was clarified that the five year figures quoted in the report were likely to be the most recent five years for which data was available. Profiles of trends had been produced for the Community Planning Partnerships and could be provided to Members on request;
the next Public Health Annual Report was likely to cover wider mortality and morbidity;
in some communities public sector services had replaced family networks due to changing demographics;
reference was made to the third sector at times being more flexible and responsive than the public sector;
ACEs impacted on all areas of society and awareness raising was vital, as was achieving a correct balance between being open and inviting conversation without triggering traumatic memories;
the length of the report might be off-putting to some and a single A4 document with key messages would be helpful for raising awareness;
investment in tackling ACEs in the early years was also financially efficient as prevention of trauma could significantly reduce an individual’s health problems in later life, as could breaking the cycle of poverty; and
support was sought from Members for the twitter account @AceHighland and to continue to raise awareness and to promote the training of front line staff.

The Council NOTED the presentation.

5. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Aware Council
Eòlasan Leanabachd Mì-fhàbharach

Declaration of Interest – Mr A Christie declared a financial interest in this item as a Board Member of NHS Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude him from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No HC/48/18 dated 5 December 2018 by the Interim Director of Care and Learning.

The Council NOTED the report and the work currently undertaken by Highland Council Care and Learning Service and how this contributed to becoming an ACE-Aware Council.

6. Confirmation of Minutes
Daingneachadh a’ Gheàrr-chunntais

There had been submitted for confirmation as a correct record the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Council held on 23 October and of the Meeting held on 25 October 2018 as contained in the Volume which had been circulated separately - which were APPROVED.

7. Minutes of Meetings of Committees
Geàrr-chunntasan Choinneamhan Chomataidhean

There had been submitted for confirmation as correct records, for information as regards delegated business and for approval as appropriate, the Minutes of Meetings of Committees contained in Volume circulated separately as undernoted:-

Ross & Cromarty Committee, 1 November 2018
* Lochaber Area Committee, 7 November 2018
Environment, Development & Infrastructure Committee, 8 November 2018
Badenoch & Strathspey Area Committee, 14 November 2018
Sutherland County Committee, 15 November 2018
Caithness Committee, 20 November 2018
Corporate Resources Committee, 21 November 2018
City of Inverness Area Committee, 22 November 2018
Nairnshire Committee, 28 November 2018
Audit & Scrutiny Committee, 29 November 2018
Isle of Skye and Raasay Committee, 3 December 2018
Care, Learning & Housing Committee, 6 December 2018

The Minutes, having been moved and seconded were, except as undernoted, APPROVED – matters arising having been dealt with as follows:-

*Starred Item: Item 7: PP 335-338: Car Parking in Lochaber

During discussion, and with specific reference to the recommendation in relation to the Car Parking in Lochaber, the Chair of the Committee explained that the reason for the decision (the recommendation to Council) at the Lochaber Committee meeting was that they had been advised that the target set was a notional budget, the decision to implement two hours free car parking was within the remit of the Area Committee, and that this was a matter for which Members had discretion. He explained that the reason he was proceeding this matter (although due to the lapse in time/implementation he was now proposing that this be six weeks free car parking for two hours effective from 14 December 2018 as opposed six weeks running up to Christmas Eve) was to ensure that budget decisions were implemented fairly and equally across the whole of the Highlands. He acknowledged the budget impact of this but stated that Lochaber had generated £156,000 in car parking revenue compared to the previous year and the recommendation was also recognition of this on behalf of the local community.

Other Members indicated their support of this recommendation on the principle of fairness in terms of implementation of the car parking charging policy across the whole of the Highlands. It was further highlighted that this was also a matter of localism and, although supportive of car parking charges, it was advocated that a proportion of the revenue generated should be retained locally.

However, the Chairman of Environment, Development and Infrastructure advised that the recommendation was not acceptable in view of the current financial pressures and the impact on the Community Services budget as result of the loss of income this would generate.

On a point of clarity, the Area Chair proposed the recommendation be financed in accordance with the decision made at the meeting of the Highland Council held on 28 June 2018 whereby it was agreed that, for 2018/19 only, any shortfall in area car parking income would be underwritten from the overall Community Services budget. However, it was indicated that free car parking was not a shortfall in income.

Thereafter, Mr A Baxter, seconded by Mr N MacLean, MOVED a MOTION that six weeks free car parking for two hours be introduced in Fort William’s short stay car parks with effect from 14 December 2018.

As an AMENDMENT, Mr A Henderson, seconded by Mr M Reiss, moved that the Council agree to (as per the spirit of the Council Minute of 28 June 2018) allow free Christmas car parking in the listed car park from now until Christmas to be funded by local ward discretionary funds.

On a vote being taken, the MOTION received 45 votes and the AMENDMENT received 14 votes, with 7 abstentions, and the MOTION was therefore CARRIED, the votes having been cast as follows:-

For the Motion:
Mr G Adam, Mr R Balfour, Mr A Baxter, Mr B Boyd, Mr R Bremner, Mr I Brown, Mr J Bruce, Mrs G Campbell-Sinclair, Dr I Cockburn, Mrs M Cockburn, Ms K Currie, Mr C Fraser, Mr L Fraser, Mr J Gordon, Mr K Gowans, Ms P Hadley, Mr A Jarvie, Ms E Knox, Mr R Laird, Mr D Louden, Mrs L MacDonald, Mr A MacInnes, Mr G MacKenzie, Mrs I MacKenzie, Mr N MacLean, Mr C MacLeod, Mr D MacLeod, Mr J McGillivray, Mr D Mackay, Mr S Mackie, Mr R MacWilliam, Ms P Munro, Mrs M Paterson, Mr I Ramon, Mr A Rhind, Mr D Rixson, Mrs F Robertson, Mr K Rosie, Mr P Saggers, Mr A Sinclair, Ms N Sinclair, Mr C Smith, Ms M Smith, Mr B Thompson and Mrs C Wilson.

For the Amendment:
Mrs C Caddick, Mr A Christie, Mrs M Davidson, Mr J Finlayson, Mr M Finlayson, Mr A Graham, Mr J Gray, Mr T Heggie, Mr A Henderson, Mr B Lobban, Mr W Mackay Mr A Mackinnon, Mr H Morrison and Mr M Reiss.

Abstentions:
Mrs J Barclay, Mrs I Campbell, Mr R Gale, Mr R MacDonald, Mrs A MacLean, Ms L Munro and Mrs T Robertson.

Decision

It was AGREED that six weeks free car parking for 2 hours be introduced in Fort William’s short stay car parks with effect from 14 December 2018.

8. Highland and Western Isles Valuation Joint Board
Co-Bhòrd Luachaidh na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean Siar

There had been circulated for information Minutes of Meeting of the Valuation Joint Board held on 13 September 2018 (approved by the Board on 20 November 2018) which were NOTED.

9. Health and Social Care Working Group
Buidheann-obrach Slàinte agus Cùraim Shòisealta

Declaration of Interest – Mr A Christie declared a financial interest in this item as a Board Member of NHS Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude him from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Minutes of Meeting of the Health and Social Care Working Group held on 28 November 2018 which were APPROVED subject to the seventh paragraph on Page 29 being deleted and replaced with the following:-

“There was NHS funding available for representatives of other communities to visit Boleskine Community Care or Black Isle Carers.”

10. Membership of Committees, etc
Ballarachd Chomataidhean, msaa

The Council was advised that, following the By-Election for Ward 5, the political make-up of the Council was now as follows:-

Independent – 27/SNP – 20/Scottish Conservatives – 11/Liberal Democrat – 9/Labour – 3/Green Party – 1/Sutherland Independent – 1/Non-Aligned – 2

The formula in respect of the number of places on Strategic Committees was now 10/7/4/3/1.

The Council was advised that, following the resignation of Mr A Baxter as the Chair of Care, Learning and Housing Committee, it was proposed that Mr J Finlayson be appointed as Chair of the committee and this was duly AGREED.

The Council also:-

(i) APPROVED the revised Committee Membership tables subject to the following additions:-
a. Care, Learning and Housing Committee – Mr R Bremner to replace Ms P Munro and Mrs M Paterson to replace Mr A Baxter;
b. Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee – Mr K Rosie to replace Ms M Smith and Mrs A MacLean to replace Mr R Gale;
c. Corporate Resources Committee – Mr A MacInnes to replace Mr K Rosie; and
(ii) AGREED the following:-
a. South Planning Applications Committee (Sub – Ward 12) – Mrs H Carmichael to replace Ms E Knox;
b. Highland Historic Buildings Trust - Mr A Henderson to replace Mrs M Paterson; and
c. NHS Highland Health and Social Care Committee – Mrs I Campbell.

11. COSLA Executive Board Membership
Ballrachd Bòrd-gnìomha COSLA

The Council AGREED the following revisions to the COSLA Executive Board membership:-

Health and Social Care Board – Mrs I Campbell to replace Ms K Stephen.

Children & Young People Board – Mr J Finlayson to replace Mr A Baxter.

12. Question Time
Am Ceiste

The following Questions had been received by the Head of Corporate Governance in terms of Standing Order 11–.

(i) Mr J McGillivray

To the Leader of the Council

‘As reported to the Resources Committee the total outstanding debt at 31 March 2014 was £743,000,000 and the loan charges incurred over the year were £33,400,000. At 31 March 2018, as reported to the Corporate Resources Committee, the total outstanding debt was £1,080,000,000 (an increase of 45.35%) and the loan charges incurred over the year amounted to £36,000,000 (an increase of 9.09%). It is clear that total debt has increased significantly over the last five years, and the corresponding low level of loan charges suggest capital repayments have been kept to a minimum.

Would the Leader of the Administration agree that this trend is deeply concerning on the grounds that:

The response had been circulated.

There was no supplementary question.

(ii) Mr A Jarvie

To the Leader of the Council

‘How exactly do you plan for the public views gathered through this consultation period to be incorporated into setting the budget next year?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr Jarvie queried how public views would be ranked and incorporated into the budget and at what point would public demand override the need for savings from a specific budget item.

In response, the Leader responded that meetings would resume in January 2019 and Members would be able to suggest rankings of public views. Appendix 2 of Item 15 (Your Voice: Budget Engagement and Financial Update) gave a clear indication of what the public had suggested.

(iii) Mr A Jarvie

To the Leader of the Council

‘The Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan marks out allocations IN43 and 50 for 401 houses. With planning permission routinely granting 25% over allocation, this will most likely be at least 500 houses.

Why do the roll forecasts continually fall short of reality and how does the IMFLDP allocations not seem to match up with roll forecasts?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr Jarvie queried, with the knowledge of the additional housing, why the roll projections for Milton of Leys Primary had decreased.

In response, the Leader confirmed that details of the calculation for Milton of Leys Primary would be sought from officers and shared with Mr Jarvie.

(iv) Mr K Gowans

To the Leader of the Council

‘Over a period of several months several parents and parent councils have raised concerns regarding what they perceive as anomalies in their Flexible Childcare invoices and statements. Many of these reports cite instances where invoices/statements are issued many months in arrears and are very difficult to understand. Parents have also claimed that Highland Council customer service representatives do not appear to be familiar with the systems.

Do you feel that the Flexible Childcare accounting and reporting systems used by Highland Council are in need of an urgent review?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr Gowans queried when a report would be brought to Council to advise Members of the findings of the review and the recommendations, given that this was an ongoing item and a matter of some urgency.

In response, the Leader confirmed that there was an issue but it was being dealt with and it was for the Chairman of Care, Learning and Housing to decide if an item should be brought to Committee.

(v) Mr K Gowans

To the Leader of the Council

‘During the last Council, it was originally estimated that £43 million would be required to alleviate the unplanned roll pressures faced by the Inverness schools. Roll pressures that are largely due in part to inadequate analysis of demographics, unsustainable development, lack of infrastructure and inadequate levels of developer contributions, especially for education.

Approximately two years ago officers revealed to the Care, Learning and Housing Committee the original estimate of £43 million was unrealistic and was then estimated to be £200 million. Clearly, such an unexpected budget pressure impacts on all areas of Highland Council.

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr Gowans queried, given that it was a pan-Highland issue and of immense importance, why there had not been reports or updates for Members to either the Full Council or the Care, Learning and Housing Committee for almost two years and asked when it was anticipated that a report would be brought to the Full Council to update Members.

In response, the Leader advised Mr Gowans that he should request a report from the Chair of Care, Learning and Housing but make clear whether this was in relation to Inverness or pan-Highland.

(vi) Mr D Louden

To the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee

‘Now that there has been an announcement of £1bn for the Scottish Futures Trust, could the Chair of Corporate Resources, guarantee that the Council will progress the preparation of “shovel ready” projects timeously to enable us to bid into the new fund?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, as the site selection for the Tain 3-18 campus would be reported to the next meeting of the Care, Learning and Housing Committee, Mr Louden queried if site investigations would proceed without delay once approved.

In response, the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee confirmed that work was ongoing preparing all sites in relation to the school. A stakeholder meeting was to take place the following week to which he would endeavour to report to.

(vii) Mr D Louden

To the Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee

‘What steps has the Council taken to ensure that fish landed at our harbours will have the correct paperwork for ease of access to the continent after Brexit?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr Louden queried what the potential loss of revenue to harbour and landing dues and fuel sales was from deep sea and inshore boats from a hard Brexit.

In response, the Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee confirmed that information would be sought from the Council’s Harbour Manager and provided accordingly.

(viii) Mr D MacLeod

To the Leader of the Council

‘What was the outcome of her talks held with the Transport Minister, Mr Michael Matheson, on 29 November 2018 to discuss a permanent solution to the Stromeferry Bypass issue?

And to ask what specific measures both the Scottish Government and the Highland Council have agreed to pursue in respect of finding a permanent solution following these talks?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr MacLeod queried if the Leader was confident funding would be forthcoming from the Scottish Futures Trust and if the Council was preparing a bid. He also queried if the Minister had addressed the question of the overdue Strategic Transport Review of the Trunk Roads Network, a responsibility placed on them by the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984.

In response, the Leader confirmed that there was potential for funding from the Scottish Future Trust and in this regard a meeting was to take place with the Chairs of Environment, Development and Infrastructure and Corporate Resources to which Local Members would also be invited to. The Strategic Transport Review was not due until 2020 but the Minister was content that Stromeferry would form part of it if the Council wanted to put it forward.

(ix) Ms M Smith

To the Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee

‘There are proposals in Ross and Cromarty to charge for some car parking in different areas. This is on the premise that the relevant community will receive a large percentage of the income generated from the car park charges. This was agreed in a previous committee and now needs to be confirmed as to the exact percentage split. Please provide me with the figure that the Administration is proposing?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Ms Smith queried if the percentage split was from any additional income generated from new car park charges or if it was in relation to any income above the target set.

In response, the Chair of Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee confirmed that, in the future, it was the intention to set a target deliberately low so there was a fair chance a good percentage would be left in the community.

(x) Ms M Smith

To the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee

‘Could I have a list of the vacancies the Council currently holds with an indication of the length of time they have been vacant?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Ms Smith queried, out of the 84 posts which Services had indicated were required, how many the Executive Leadership Team had approved.

In response, the Chair of Corporate Resources Committee confirmed that details would be provided to Ms Smith but that the Services being delivered were not affected by the holding of these posts.

(xi) Mr R MacWilliam

To the Leader of the Council

‘Has the Leader had a reply to her letter to Scottish Ministers on the completion date of the £3billion A9 dualling project?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr MacWilliam queried if the Leader accepted that the Scottish Government was committed to dualling the A9 by 2025.

In response, the Leader confirmed that a letter had been received from the Scottish Minister confirming this and would be shared with Mr MacWillliam. However, this was contrary to the views of the communities, users and construction engineers of the road.

(xii) Mr R MacWilliam

To the Leader of the Council

‘Does the Leader anticipate maximising the Highland Council allocation of Scottish Government affordable housing programme funds for 2018/19?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Mr MacWilliam queried what measures the Leader had to ensure the support was in place so officers could fully deliver the Strategic Housing Investment Plan.

In response, the Leader confirmed that she was confident that there would be no under-performing on housing development. The Team were renowned for accessing external additional monies but should they require additional human resources their request would be made known to the Chief Executive.

(xiii) Ms P Munro

To the Leader of the Council

‘It is noted that the current waiting list for school age children to be referred to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) is now in the region of two years. It is crucial that our vulnerable young people are able to get a diagnosis at the earliest opportunity. Therefore, can I please have assurances that the Leader will immediately address the unacceptable delays for referrals to this and other mental health services within our school system?’

The response had been circulated.

In terms of a supplementary question, Ms Munro queried why there were instances where schools had had no contact with Primary Mental Health Workers and if she could meet with the Leader to discuss specific cases.

In response, the Leader confirmed that a meeting would be arranged but, in such instances, Head Teachers should contact the Chief Executive so that these gaps in provision could be identified and addressed.

13. Notices of Motion
Brathan Gluasaid

The following Notices of Motion have been received in accordance with Standing Order 12:-

(i) ‘Regional Workforce Recruitment Strategy: Highland Council recognises that the Highland economy and public services are reliant on inward migration for recruitment; proposes the formation of a joint working group with HIE, NHS Highland and representatives of Highland industry to develop a regional workforce recruitment strategy to avert a crisis in recruitment in the event of ending free movement for EU nationals as a result of Brexit.’

Signed: Mr R MacWilliam Mrs M Cockburn

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

recruitment in the Highlands was an on-going problem across most sectors of the economy and was likely to deteriorate further, depending on the outcome of Brexit, and Highland Council needed to take a firm position;
at the Council’s Brexit seminar, Members had heard experts’ concerns, particularly about the agriculture sector and small businesses and their ability to attract the necessary number of workers;
although Highland was a good place to live, it lacked employment opportunities and public agencies needed to do a better job of promoting the area;
a range of skills was required. Accordingly, the Brexit Working Group needed to convene early in 2019 to pull together all the key agencies with a view to formulating a plan to attract the necessary workforce;
a message that the “Highlands was open for business” needed to be communicated to all stakeholders. Highland had a low population with a huge land mass and a collective approach was required. A small investment at this time could have significant benefits;
the matter had been raised at a recent meeting of the Convention of the Highlands and Islands. A shared service approach would work well i.e. a recruitment division covering all Highland public agencies which could also highlight the benefits of living in Highland in a concerted way. It could also address some of the other collective issues about relocating to Highland such as housing in remote areas and providing a suitable family environment; and
the Scottish Government had a responsibility to stem the flow of those leaving Scotland.

Decision

The Council AGREED the terms of the Notice of Motion as detailed.

(ii) ‘ACE Aware Child Bereavement Services: That Highland Council recognises that childhood bereavement is an adverse childhood experience (ACE); notes with alarm that 67% of school exclusions are attributable to young people who have lost a parent or sibling and that research suggests multiple poor outcomes in later life for bereaved children; believes that Highland Council as an ‘ACE-aware’ Council has a duty to engage with all support services to improve outcomes for all children, and will prioritise bereavement services for children as part of a wider review of service improvements for those who have suffered bereavement.’

Signed: Mr R MacWilliam Ms K Currie

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

a previous question regarding support services in place within the Council to address moments of chaos arising from bereavement had helped to inform the Council’s Mental Health Plan;
the statistics in the ACE’s study about those who had suffered bereavement were alarming and much needed to be done to improve outcomes. Children affected by bereavement should be prioritised and the necessary measures put in place;
67% of school exclusions were of children who had suffered parental or sibling bereavement. Accordingly, it was important to examine what was currently being provided in terms of support and how it could be improved;
bereavement affected everyone at some point and it was a common misconception that it was a private matter. Instead it was important to have a support structure in place to provide professional guidance;
as Corporate Parents it was important for Members to have insight, empathy and a good form of perspective to ensure these children had an equality of relationships;
while concurring with the sentiments expressed it was contended that the individual be prioritised rather than concentrating primarily on a service i.e. providing the right services to the right individual regardless of whether they were an adult or child, depending on their needs; and
at a recent Mental Health Summit, Crocus, who provided bereavement support to children and young people in the Highland, had highlighted the disadvantages many young people who had suffered bereavement faced later in life and, when considering budgets, it was important to bear in mind the importance of their work.

Decision

The Council AGREED the terms of the Notice of Motion as detailed – subject to a change to the wording in the penultimate sentence, to replace the word ‘prioritise’ with ‘promote’.

(iii) ‘Highland Council supports proposals currently being developed by NHS Highland and local stakeholders to ensure refurbishment and redesign of Caithness General Hospital and the creation of health care hubs in Wick and Thurso, recognising that these measures retain existing local services whilst offering a sustainable model to further develop and enhance local provision. Caithness Members will continue to work with NHS Highland and stakeholders to provide more local clinics, reduce unnecessary travel and address ongoing concerns regarding maternity services.’

Signed: Mr K Rosie Mr R Bremner Ms N Sinclair Mr M Reiss

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

opportunities outweighed challenges in Caithness and new business investment in the west of Caithness and North Sutherland had taken place in the recent months. However, this was in the face of the rundown of the nuclear industry and the difficulties in regard to health and social care in the Spring of 2017;
a health redesign process had been ongoing for some time and had been a main issue during elections. Calls were made for the Scottish Government to invest in the redesign proposals;
there was enthusiasm within communities and in the previous 18 months there had been the emergence of development trusts and community organisations setting about establishing amenities that were financially viable, sustainable and of real benefit to all in Caithness;
provision needed to be focused on people’s general health and wellbeing. In cooperation with the Caithness Community Partnership (CCP), there was an opportunity to provide meaningful localism and to fulfil a collaborative and solution focused partnership. There was huge potential within the CCP, a forum which had business expertise, multi-agency, third sector and public participation and the ability to empower communities. Accordingly, agreement was sought for the redesign proposals and for Caithness Councillors to fund the CCP with future ward discretionary funding;
in Spring 2017 there had been various rumours regarding the future of Adult Health and Social Care in Caithness including the closure of the Town and County and Dunbar Hospitals or reducing their status. These rumours had resulted in public protests and consequently NHS Highland had given a commitment to review provision. Following detailed consultation, a submission was now being made to the Scottish Government for support for an investment programme of £30m for health services in Caithness, a much needed economic boost;
services needed to be redesigned as a result of changes in medical practices since the hospitals had been built. In addition, Caithness General Hospital was to be refurbished;
the hubs in Wick and Thurso had been fully discussed during the consultation to determine what proposals would best suit. As a result, it had been decided that services in the east and west of Caithness would be retained locally and, with a number of changes, services improved;
NHS Highland was looking at how to tackle the various issues regarding the delivery of health services in rural areas. This included recruitment and upskilling and discussions were taking place with UHI and the Northern Highland College. The aim was to reduce the need to travel whilst providing accessibility to health services;
whilst challenges remained, considerable progress had been made as a result of the hard work of many and appreciation was expressed to all those involved;
there was still work to be done. There were still too many patients travelling to Raigmore Hospital for 10 minute appointments and therefore it was important to repatriate as many clinics as possible. Video consultations had helped but it was only one part of the solution and not suitable for all;
the new model of maternity services still carried risks;
predictions were that the population would decrease by 14% in the next 20 years and action needed to be taken to reverse this. Caithness had excellent schools, connectivity, a beautiful natural environment and, importantly, its superb hospitals and the redesign underway would enhance their reputation; and
prevention and addressing the root causes of poverty were essential if the health and life chances of those living in Caithness were to be improved. Excellent work had taken place in areas of multiple deprivation but a holistic overview was needed and it was suggested that a multi-agency Poverty Summit be held.

Decision

The Council AGREED the terms of the Notice of Motion as detailed.

(iv) ‘Highland Council will seek to identify and address local and regional transport needs to enable input on the national transport strategy.’

Signed: Mr K Rosie Mr R Bremner

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

the current National Transport Strategy set out three Key Strategic Outcomes as the guiding principles at national, regional and local level when developing strategy and prioritising resources, namely (a) improved journey times and connections (to tackle congestion and lack of integration and connections in transport); (b) reduced emissions (to tackle climate change, air quality, health improvement); and (c) improved quality, accessibility and affordability (to give choice of public transport, better quality services and value for money or alternative to car);
comparison was made to the Faroe Islands which, in the 1960s, had a similar population level to Caithness. In 2017 the Faroe Islands population exceeded 50,000 whilst Caithness had dropped below 30,000. This was because the Faroese had provided transport connectivity to 13 of their 18 Islands in the form of subterranean tunnels. There was now also a subterranean roundabout, their own International airline and 4G connectivity across each of the Islands, extending 200 miles out to sea, and they were working towards providing 5G connectivity on the same basis. Caithness needed to be just as aspirational;
Caithness had a range of transport providers and resources such as NHS Highland, Highland Council, the third sector and commercial organisations and, following on from informal discussions with transport providers, there was an opportunity to work collaboratively to identify and address local issues;
improvements to the train journey time from Wick to Inverness were called for, together with the devolution of the network rail service and a reduction in the journey target time of 3 hours. With the increasing volume of car and heavy haulage traffic on the road network an improved train service would help to reduce carbon emissions;
reference was made to the Lochaber Transport pilot and it was hoped similar could be realised in Caithness. By adopting the NHS Highland consultation model for the recent health and social care redesign process it was hoped, when applying it to transport, that a truly integrated and sustainable transport system could be achieved both at a regional and local level;
connecting hubs, in this case Wick, Thurso and Inverness and beyond, would help build the economy;
being clear of the factors impinging of the ability to deliver good structure and connectivity whilst having minimal impact on the environment was important. This was an aim of HITRANS together with maximising the use of integrated transport schemes;
SUSTRANS had provided many new community link routes in Inverness and the surrounding area but 50% funding was required to source that;
many in Highland needed a car to move around as they felt held to ransom by bus operators or trains not running on time. If people were to be encouraged to stay/live in rural areas then a suitable integrated transport system had to be provided; and
Transport Scotland’s focus on minimising journey times also needed to take into account resilience e.g. road closures as a result of accidents, landslides etc. There was a significant economic impact of road closures in Highland, as opposed to other areas in Scotland, given the potential for huge geographical diversions, resulting local economies grinding to a halt.

Decision

The Council AGREED the terms of the Notice of Motion as detailed.

14. Annual Review of The Council Programme
Prògram na Comhairle

There had been circulated Report No. HC/49/18 dated 1 December 2018 by the Chief Executive.

Prior to debate, the Chief Executive highlighted the need for Members, staff and communities to work collectively. From a series of visits she had made throughout Highland it had been evident there was now a willingness to change how services were delivered and to build capacity. The Highlands had a rich heritage and an incredible environment and it was essential to sustain this whilst also having ambition as to what could be achieved.

The Leader of the Council emphasised the opportunity the review of the Council Programme presented, and the need to make bold statements and be ambitious about what Members wanted to achieve for Highland. She thanked Members for their input to date and explained that there would be a further opportunity at the proposed seminar in January, at which the performance measures that would accompany the Programme would be discussed. That would inform the draft Corporate Plan, which would also come before Members. She went on to refer to the feedback from the budget engagement process that had taken place over the past six weeks, and commended the ambition of Council staff and communities. The Programme showed ambition on many fronts and she highlighted, in particular, the need to improve infrastructure and to stabilise the populations in the North and West and help them grow. However, she wanted all Members to be ambitious and champion Highland, and she welcomed further input.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

there had been a change in recent months in terms of communities’ awareness of and willingness to become involved in Council business and reference was made to a recent meeting with Community Council representatives and the positive engagement that had taken place in relation to local governance;
in relation to this item and the next, it was necessary to do things differently and reset the old expectations between the Council, communities, Community Councils, Community Partnerships etc. In that regard, the importance of consultation, engagement, listening, empowerment, localism, trust, good communication and inclusivity was emphasised;
in the areas of the UK where successful transformation had taken place there had been a concerted effort by everybody involved to showcase the good things that happened there, and the need for the local media to promote Highland in a positive light was emphasised;
the Programme was not about party politics but achieving better outcomes for communities and showcasing Highland as the number one place in the UK to work, live and thrive;
trying to identify a definitive list of priorities was a mistake as the services provided by the Council were so varied and delivered over such a wide geographical area that inevitably priorities changed depending on a multitude of factors;
sustainability had to be a priority and that sometimes meant difficult decisions had to be made. Sustainability came in many forms and reference was made to the unintended consequences of energy saving measures in terms of poor air circulation, damp and mould. It was emphasised that it was necessary to take a holistic view, plan, consult, and base decisions on knowledge, experience, professional advice and the interests of constituents;
the Council was fortunate in that it had some of the foremost officials in the public sector in Scotland, as well as a fantastic legacy of knowledge and expertise from former officers;
whilst the Programme was admirable, concern was expressed as to how deliverable it was in a time of decreasing budgets;
given that officers were already struggling to deliver services, Members questioned who was going to monitor the key outcomes and targets;
communities were concerned with issues such as potholes, having sufficient teachers in schools, public toilets and good housing that was repaired on time and it would be difficult to engage with them in relation to the proposed Programme when other issues were not being addressed;
whilst the need for targets was recognised it was important not to become too fixated on them and to focus on need;
clarification was sought in relation to paragraph 7.1 of the report, which stated that the proposed seminar would be used to explore how the structure of the organisation, including political and governance structures both at strategic and area level, might need to change to support the delivery of performance measures;
it was understood that the purpose of the Programme was to set out the priorities of the Council. This then fed into the Corporate Plan, which set out how performance would be measured, and the budget, which funded the stated priorities. In addition, caution was expressed regarding increasing the number of pledges from 30, in the previous Programme, to 51. The value of a commitment could only be judged if it was known how it was intended to achieve and monitor it, otherwise it was merely an aspiration. It was therefore suggested that the Programme be treated as a draft, that it be refined following the proposed seminar, and that a slimmed down iteration be considered at the same time as the Corporate Plan;
concern was expressed that the Programme conflated service provision with wider aspirations in terms of the Council’s role in improving Highland communities;
affluent communities were enthusiastic about having a greater say in how the Council conducted its business. However, less affluent communities were more concerned with service provision and it was suggested that providing services to the best standard possible needed to be at the forefront of the Programme. Once that had been financed, consideration could be given to what could be done in addition;
Members wished to see more about the decentralisation of Council services;
reference was made to the significant number of people that commuted to Inverness from surrounding communities, thereby adding to the carbon footprint and traffic congestion, and it was suggested that it was necessary to encourage businesses to operate in smaller rural locations throughout Highland;
thanks were expressed to the Leader of the Council for listening to Members’ views, and the changes that had been made to the Programme were welcomed. However, there was no reference to Brexit and the associated challenges and opportunities, and the need to create policy to maximise those opportunities was emphasised;
whilst Members welcomed the increase in the number of young people who wanted to stay in Highland, the figure was still only 46% and it was lower outwith Inverness. The loss of young people from rural areas had to be targeted or it would escalate to the point that services would not be able to be sustained;
the Programme was inspirational and full of optimism but was very much aspirational. Much of its delivery depended on local communities and the Council needed to work with community groups, remembering that they were volunteers, and be seen as an enabler rather than a barrier;
the need to better include Gaelic in the context of the document was emphasised;
if the Council was truly committed to localism it was necessary to empower communities financially and it was suggested that point 2 of the priorities in section 2 of the Programme should be strengthened accordingly;
the Programme had become very fluid and it was necessary to bring it to a conclusion so that the Council had a clear vision going forward;
it was necessary to distribute resources more evenly throughout Highland;
reference was made to a recent publication by the Scottish Ecological Design Association which highlighted that around 55% of homes in Highland were affected by fuel poverty, an issue that had not been mentioned in the Programme. One of the main reasons for fuel poverty was the quality of house building, fuel bills often being three times what they ought to be to heat a modern home. It was a key issue and it was suggested that it should be front and centre of the Programme;
since the 1970s, Highland had undergone transformational change and had benefitted from improved national and international transport links and digital connectivity. It was perceived as being an area that offered a high quality of life, and had been listed in a 2018 Scottish Government report as being the best place to live in Scotland. Tourism and service industries continued to be major economic drivers but that was not currently the case for the oil and gas industry. While overreliance on oil and gas had undermined the economy since the 1990s, the affect had been mitigated by the rise of life sciences and renewables. The unpredictability of non-traditional industries such as oil and gas, and the vulnerability of overreliance on multinationals were apparent. Traditional industries offered repetitive tasks that could be automated or a large employer could relocate and, in a relatively small city surrounded by a large rural hinterland, this presented a high level of risk. In a time of high unemployment where traditional skills could be outsourced or automated, creative skills remained highly sought after and valuable. It was clear that the medium to long term goal of the Council should be to develop a creative workforce as a key contributor to innovation and research, locally, nationally and internationally, and to help employers create opportunities that were entrepreneurial, indigenous, high quality and, above all, sustainable. This would attract high quality jobs to take advantage of the creative workforce that was likely to add real value to the prospects of the region. To do so, it was necessary to build a society that was creative, diverse and tolerant as part of a wider strategic vision that was shared across political, economic, social, and cultural agents, every one of which was a stakeholder. The essential task before Members was to unleash the energies, talent and potential of everyone to build a society that acknowledged and nurtured creativity, and to work together towards a creative economy in Highland;
the natural environment was arguably Highland’s biggest selling point and could not be underplayed. It was already generating a significant number of jobs and the trend was in the right direction. The tourist season was longer and was generating more and better paid jobs and it was necessary to do as much as possible to encourage that to continue. In addition, the benefits to children of outdoor education/activities and taking managed risks were emphasised; and
the population in Caithness was predicted to drop by 14% over the next 20 years and reversing that trend would be a good measure of success.

In responding to the points raised, the Leader of the Council suggested that the recommendation in the report be modified and that Council note the draft Programme, which would be subject to further consideration.

In relation to whether it was necessary to include a statement about basic services, she suggested that that be considered at the proposed seminar. However, she reminded Members that the Council Programme would inform Service Plans which would set out how services would be provided. Monitoring and achievability also required further discussion. In that regard, she emphasised the need for meaningful outcomes and measures. In addition, she highlighted that Members would be monitoring the Programme and the Corporate Plan while officers would monitor Service Plans and report to the Chief Executive on a regular basis.

She went on to concur with the points raised in relation to Gaelic, localism, fuel poverty and the environment and highlighted that decentralising services and improving the amount of local spend had been included in the Programme. She sought Members’ assistance in reducing the number of pledges and, in relation to poverty, emphasised that it was threaded throughout Highland and it was necessary to address it all. Finally, she explained that the Chief Executive would be undertaking further work on the potential re-structuring of the Council and the matter would be discussed at the proposed seminar in January.

Decision

The Council:-

i. NOTED the draft Council Programme which would be subject to further consideration;
ii. NOTED the development of the Corporate Plan with key outcomes linked to robust target setting to be submitted to Council for Members’ approval in the New Year; and
iii. AGREED that a two day all-Member seminar be held in January 2019.

Read the Minutes (Items 15-21)

15. Your Voice: Budget Engagement and Financial Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Bhuidseat

There had been circulated Report No. HC/50/18 by the Chief Executive and Depute Chief Executive.

In addition to the report, the Depute Chief Executive provided a verbal update on the previous day’s Scottish budget announcement during which he explained that the specific grant allocation for the Council would not be known until Monday 17 December. The headline figure presented by the Scottish Government was a cash increase of £163m for local government in the next financial year. However, COSLA was presenting that as a reduction in core grant funding of £237m, the difference between the two figures relating to ring-fenced funding for a number of new commitments that were included in the settlement, details of which were provided. The reduction in core grant equated to 2% but the Council’s budget assumptions were based on a 1% reduction. The difference between 1% and 2% was approximately £4.3m. However, time was needed to analyse the figures in detail.

The Budget Leader commended the report to Members, commenting that, in common with other local authorities, the Council faced considerable challenges in managing its budget, but there were also opportunities. The Budget Team remained committed to a three-year planning cycle and the projected overspend had reduced from £5.112m to £2.238m. However, there were risks, such as the Looked After Children budget, winter maintenance and the staff pay award. A target had been set of returning Council reserves to at least 2% of the revenue budget and, although the situation was challenging, it was important to bear in mind that there was in excess of £500m currently available to spend on the delivery of core services.

The Budget Team was committed to closing the budget gap, primarily by raising money through Council Tax and other fees, charges and taxes, and to spending less on services by delivering them more efficiently. It was important that communities influenced the Council’s priorities, and the recent round of engagement events with staff and the public was evidence of the consultative approach to the budget. The principal message in the face of the challenging national situation was delivering services to meet community needs as efficiently as possible, keeping within budget, and this would be best achieved through a collaborative approach within the Council and working with staff and the public, the input from whom had been humbling and encouraging.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

concern was expressed that the Budget Team had not been working collaboratively with the Opposition, who were also working on proposals with officers, and information was sought on when more detail on the budget proposals would be available. In response, the Budget Leader explained that the budget papers were a work in progress and it was hoped that they would be available in early January in good time for the proposed seminar;
the report referred to the very positive contributions to the budget engagement process. However, many of the comments on social media were negative and there was a lot more to be done in terms of communicating why the Council did certain things and how initiatives such as the River Ness public art project and the Inverness Town House refurbishment were funded. It was added that the press had a role to play in that regard. In response, the Budget Leader acknowledged that there was a long way to go. However, the engagement events that had taken place had been positively received and the Budget Team was listening to feedback and was committed to continuing the process;
information was sought, and provided, on the current position in relation to undelivered savings;
it was necessary to do things differently and the redesign work was starting to pay dividends. However, some savings and culture changes took time to materialise;
it was necessary to ask whether specific services needed to be provided and, if so, whether there was a more effective way of doing things;
increasing income was key, and it was necessary to set targets and aim to reach them but recognise that, in some cases, they would not be achieved;
it was important to think big and to take steps to get there, and the Council’s vision was ambitious, transformational and aspirational;
Members and the public needed to know, in much more granularity, what Council funding was being spent on;
the importance of consultation and communication was emphasised;
it was necessary to explore new systems and processes, and there was a need for more remote, flexible and agile working;
Members described the positive engagement that had taken place at Dingwall Academy, particularly at the School Fair, emphasising that the public recognised the issues being faced in relation to the budget, and had, in some cases, experienced the same issues in their own workplace and wanted to work with the Council to achieve improvements. Other Members added that re-arranging one of the sessions at short notice had not been helpful, and inviting all Local Members to attend the Fair would have been more collaborative;
thanks were expressed to the Budget Leader and the Executive Leadership Team, who had attended a significant number of engagement events throughout Highland;
there was a need for a critical analysis of service provision from the bottom up rather than the top down to ensure that frontline staff had the opportunity to say what was working and what was not, and that their ideas for improving services and realising savings or revenue increases were reflected in the budget proposals that came forward;
sometimes culture change was required. However, it was not always comfortable to think about the impact some changes might have internally;
in relation to income generation, it was believed that the parking meter at Eden Court Theatre was generating over £1000 per week, the majority of which was going back to the theatre to support drama and the arts;
it was important to get maximum value out of the public pound;
whilst the civic bonfire and fireworks display in Inverness cost in the region of £15,000 annually, the event brought a significant amount of revenue to the city and the money spent on stewarding, safety barriers etc benefitted the community and other public agencies;
concern was expressed regarding janitors’ houses which had lain empty for a number of years and the associated missed potential in terms of rental income and Council Tax;
whilst the Redesign Board was on the right track, it was necessary to move much faster and to monitor initiatives at an early stage so they could be modified or terminated if the anticipated efficiencies were not being achieved;
it was necessary to apply more business acumen to public services to generate income;
the level of response to the Facebook live session on education had been disappointing;
if the predictions by COSLA and other local authorities were correct, the reduction in core grant funding was likely to be between 2-3% and the Council would require to identify additional savings of £4-5m. It was no longer possible to “salami slice” and it was necessary to consider what areas to target and what services not to deliver. It was important to recognise the enormity of the challenge, particularly against a backdrop of trying to increase capacity and better engage with the Third Sector, Community Councils, and communities in general. It was necessary to work in collaboration to find the best possible solutions and to move forward with a sense of positivity, share the challenges with communities, be open and transparent in all communications and hopefully identity areas where any cuts would have the least possible impact on the most vulnerable people in Highland;
staff and the public had a lot of good ideas and confidence was expressed that, with their help, the Council was up to the challenges and the legal requirement of a balanced budget would be achieved;
there were positives and negatives to the Scottish Government budget depending on your point of view. For example, HIE funding had been cut by 16% or £10m whereas Government Business and Constitutional Relations funding had increased by 500%, which equated to an additional £9.7m; and
the island authorities had received extra money and it was maintained that, in many ways, Highland was like a large island and also required additional funding.

Decision

The Council:-

i. NOTED the very positive contributions and the significant effort made by communities, staff and Members to the budget engagement process in the month of November; and
ii. AGREED to a Members’ seminar in January 2019 to take forward the matters raised into clear actions which will then be incorporated into the February budget paper.

16. Options for Funding Future Highland Tourism Development: A Transient Visitor Levy
Cìs Neach-tadhail Sealach

Declaration of Interest – Mrs I Mackenzie, Mrs I Campbell, Mr A Henderson, Mr G Adam, Mrs C Caddick, Mr H Morrison, Mr R MacDonald, Mr R Bremner, Mr C MacLeod, declared financial interests in this item as a tourist operator and Mr J Gordon declared a financial interest as a tourist operator and a non-financial interest as a director of SkyeConnect but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude them from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No. HC/51/18 dated 5 December 2018 by the Director of Development & Infrastructure.

It was highlighted to Members that, if approved, the proposed public consultation on the implementation of a Transient Visitor Levy would commence in early 2019.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

the Cabinet Secretary had informed the Convener that he was looking forward to receiving responses from the Council’s consultation;
the consultation presented a once in a lifetime opportunity to consult on a Transient Visitor Levy and it was estimated that a levy could bring in between £5-10m per annum;
whilst there were currently some areas which might not attract much tourism, it was important to ensure that the consultation reached every person and village in the Highlands as there was potential that visitor numbers could increase due to exposure through the internet and social media;
there was a growing consensus across the whole of Scotland that a Transient Visitor Levy was required immediately and this had been recognised by the Scottish Government;
Members should act as ambassadors for the levy and actively encourage people to respond to the consultation;
in highlighting that other countries operated a tourism levy, it was emphasised that the levy was seeking to generate income from tourists and not the tourism sector or hoteliers. The levy could be used to help address issues regarding infrastructure and had the potential to create opportunities for the tourism industry to apply for funding from;
it was important to recognise the wider impact the introduction of a levy could have on the tourism industry in the Highlands and that the focus should not just be on the revenue that could potentially be generated from it;
the consultation should contain evidence of how tourism levies worked in other countries as the way they operated could be different to what was being proposed in Scotland;
the UK had both the highest level of VAT rates and air traffic passenger levies in Europe;
other countries had the ability to change or reimburse tourism levies to compensate the local economy;
in emphasising that the way in which a tourism levy was implemented in a city could be very different to how it was implemented within a rural area, it was highlighted that planning had started within Skye towards the introduction of separate car parking charges in iconic sites frequented by tourists, which could be considered as an equitable tax;
in highlighting the importance of investing in infrastructure to sustain a viable tourism model, it was pointed out that, whilst revenue generated by tourism in Skye had made an important contribution towards central government, this had not always been reinvested in the area;
discussion should take place with business representatives at the earliest opportunity to identify any issues they might have in relation to extra work arising from the introduction of a tourism levy;
four years previously Inverness had had the highest proportion of empty commercial units of any high street within the UK and caution was urged against anything that could potentially impact on businesses;
a recent study by UK Hospitality had identified Scotland as being ranked 135th out of 136 countries for tourism price competitiveness and concern was expressed that a small increase in cost to tourists could exacerbate this;
any impact on income could be addressed by devolving a small percentage of local VAT revenues to the Council and that the consultation should seek views on this as an addition to the second recommendation contained within the report;
it was not always the case that tourists were responsible for the increase in tax and these types of comment should be avoided during the consultation as some of instances of this tax would fall on those businesses and individuals that provide the services and could alienate those businesses the Council was seeking to consult with;
the economy of rural and remote communities along the West Coast was reliant on tourism;
it had been suggested locally by some organisations that there was potential for levies from tourism to be devolved to local areas for spending;
the potential income generated from car parking charges at iconic visitor sites could raise similar sums of money to that suggested in the tourism levy and could also have a smaller impact on local businesses;
the Highlands and Islands Federation of Small Businesses had recently conducted a survey of around 200 firms, of whom almost three quarters felt that the tourism levy would have a negative impact on the areas’ economy. Conversely, it was highlighted that only 8% of firms within the Highlands and Islands Federation of Small Businesses had actually responded;
the proposed tourism levy had the potential to increase revenue to the Council and that whilst various cases for spending money had been made by Members, other ideas for generating income were not always forthcoming;
a tax on tourism was a standard form of income generation and could be used for investment in infrastructure;
the potential to generate income from users of motorhomes was highlighted and whilst there was a willingness from users to spend money to clear their waste water and fill up water tanks, the opportunity was not currently available to them due to a lack of infrastructure;
people visiting other countries were used to the concept of a tourism tax and it was unlikely an extra charge would put off potential visitors;
in response to a comment expressing the need to ensure that the consultation included businesses and tourist operators and the potential for a cross-party group to identify what content should be included, it was highlighted that there was already a Tourism Working Group comprising of cross-party Members;
the importance of having a means of financing improvements to infrastructure that would help to contribute to sustainable tourism was emphasised; and
the popularity of videos recorded in Highland and posted on YouTube, such as those by Danny MacAskill, helped attract tourists to the area and it was important to generate revenue for investment in infrastructure.

Thereafter, Mr A Henderson, seconded by Ms M Smith, MOVED the terms of the recommendation as detailed.

As an AMENDMENT, Mr A Jarvie, seconded by Mr C Smith, moved that the following additional phrase be included within the second recommendation: ‘also, for this consultation to seek the same views on devolving a percentage of local VAT revenue to the Council’.

On a vote being taken, the MOTION received 46 votes and the AMENDMENT received 8 votes, with 2 abstentions, and the MOTION was therefore CARRIED, the votes having been cast as follows:-

For the Motion:
Mr G Adam, Mrs J Barclay, Mr B Boyd, Mr R Bremner, Mrs C Caddick, Miss J Campbell, Mrs I Campbell, Mrs G Campbell-Sinclair, Mr A Christie, Dr I Cockburn, Mrs M Cockburn, Ms K Currie, Mrs M Davidson, Mr J Finlayson, Mr M Finlayson, Mr K Gowans, Mr A Graham, Mr J Gray, Ms P Hadley, Mr T Heggie, Mr A Henderson, Ms E Knox, Mr R Laird, Mr B Lobban, Mrs L MacDonald, Mr R MacDonald, Mr G MacKenzie, Mr A MacInnes, Mr A Mackinnon, Mrs A MacLean, Mr C MacLeod, Mr D Macpherson, Mr R MacWilliam, Mr H Morrison, Ms L Munro, Mrs P Munro, Mrs M Paterson, Mr M Reiss, Mr D Rixson, Mrs F Robertson, Mrs T Robertson, Mr K Rosie, Mr G Ross, Ms N Sinclair, Ms M Smith and Mr B Thompson.

For the Amendment:
Mr J Bruce, Mr L Fraser, Mr A Jarvie, Mr D Mackay, Mr D MacLeod, Mr P Saggers
Mr A Sinclair and Mr C Smith.

Abstentions:
Mr R Balfour and Mr A Baxter.

Decision

The Council:-

i. NOTED the range of factors that would need consideration in deciding whether and how to implement a Transient Visitor Levy; and
ii. APPROVED the proposal that the Council should carry out a public consultation on the implementation of a Transient Visitor Levy as described in section 7 of the report.

17. Redesign of Highland Council – Progress Report
Ath-dhealbhadh Chomhairle na Gaidhealtachd – Aithisg Adhartais

Declaration of Interest – Mr L Fraser as housing maintenance sub-contractor and Mr D Rixson as a Board member of Lochaber Housing Association declared non-financial interests in this item but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude him from taking part in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No. HC/52/18 dated 4 December 2018 by the Chief Executive.

There had also been circulated Minutes of Meeting of the Redesign Board held on 13 November 2018.

During discussion, the following main issues were raised by Members:-

reference was made to press reports about an Auditor’s Report in relation to the Council’s financial arrangements, written on behalf of the Council. It was explained that these press reports were inaccurate. The Council had received a report for the Redesign Board, free of charge, by a person independent of the Council. The Board had commended the report as a great piece of work for consideration;
there had been good engagement in the Redesign process by staff at all levels. It was important to focus now on the implementation of reviews;
it was acknowledged that the Trade Services Review had been very complicated but if good systems and processes were put in place that were easy to adopt then staff were more likely to adapt easier to the changes which had the potential to generate significant savings. The implementation of this review required to be regularly monitored to ensure it was achieving the desired outcomes;
in terms of the Trades Review, if there was evidence of poor workmanship then this needed to be challenged, as should excessively high charges for work completed. It was suggested that a lack of supervision might be a reason for poor workmanship. Furthermore, it was understood that the merging of two systems within Trades Services had been tried in the past and halted some years later and there was concern that this could happen again;
it was important that all the appropriate Officials that had an interest in the Trades Review had the chance to comment on the report, particularly from a health and safety perspective; and
in relation to the Agency and Temporary workers review, some benefits could be achieved by simply adhering to current Council policies. This review would also involve organisational change and flexible working.

The Council:-

i. APPROVED the Minutes of the Redesign Board;
ii. NOTED progress on Council Redesign work;
iii. APPROVED the recommendations of the Trade Services Peer Review; and
iv. AGREED that the Redesign Board should continue to oversee the delivery and implementation of three specific recommendations in the short term which would assist with the delivery of savings, with increased efficiency of operation and with the development of the in-house capability for trade services for both Council housing and other property. These were:

A Lean review into housing and property repairs processes;
The development of a trial to pilot more effective joint working between Community Services and Development & Infrastructure; and
The procurement of a new framework for trade services.

18. Inverness and Highland City Region Deal Annual Report
Cùmhnant Roinne/Baile

There had been circulated Report No. HC/53/18 dated 3 December 2018 by the Director of Development and Infrastructure.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

it was queried what would follow after the current Inverness and Highland City Region Deal was concluded. It was requested that, in the Council Programme, there be a commitment for the Council to promote to the UK and Scottish Governments for a successor to the City/Region Deal, particularly focusing on the North and West Coast Highlands and perhaps also in partnership with Partners in Northern Argyll to address some of the fundamental issues in these areas that the current City/Region Deal was just beginning to address. In this respect, the Leader undertook to arrange a meeting with Members interested in this issue;
the time was now right for a new Region deal as the current City/Region deal had provided minimal benefits out with Inverness. Any successor to the City/Region Deal should give consideration to smaller rural areas;
the extensive geographical area and coastline of the Highlands needed to be taken into account in any successor to the City/Region deal;
the work by Officers involved in the City/Region Deal was commended and there was good progress on projects such as the installation of WiFi and ultra-fast Broadband in various villages and towns across Highland. This was a fantastic benefit for UHI, colleges and businesses across the Highlands;
given the importance of retaining young people in the Highlands, the housing element within the City/Region Deal was mid-market rent housing, aimed at younger people. Developments were planned in various locations throughout the Highlands;
there was a need to look at how Local Committees could deliver on their local strategic priorities and how any successor to the City/Region Deal funding could be used to help meet these priorities; and
it was explained that when the Council had drawn up its wish list of projects for City/Region Deal, the Treasury had only been interested in projects that could generate significant tax income or economic benefits e.g. more housing with increased income from Council tax. However, the value of projects was not just be about their cost benefit return and the Council needed to be able to demonstrate the economic benefits of projects beyond any tax income that could be achieved.

Thereafter, the Council:-

i. NOTED progress with the City Region Deal during 2018; and
ii. APPROVED the publication of the report on the Council’s website.

19. Member Attendance at Meetings
Làthaireachd Bhall aig Coinneamhan

It was confirmed that the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 required that if a Member of a Local Authority failed, throughout a period of six consecutive months, to attend any meeting of the Authority, they should, unless the failure was due to some reason approved by the Authority, cease to be a Member of that Authority.

In this regard, it was advised that Mr Blair Allan had, because of illness, been unable to attend meetings of the Council since 28 June 2018. As this might continue beyond the 6 months stipulated in the Act, the Council was required to approve his absence because of illness to enable him to continue as a Member of the Authority.

Decision

The Council APPROVED Mr Allan’s absence as a result of illness on the basis that the position would be reviewed following a further three month period and an update provided for the meeting on 7 March 2019 if necessary.

20. Timetable of Meetings
Clàr-ama Choinneamhan

The Council AGREED the following change to the timetable of meetings for 2019 -

Special Meeting of Highland Council – 16 January 2019 at 2.00 pm

Lochaber Area Committee – to now be held on 23 January 2019 (instead of 16 January 2019)

North Planning Applications Committee – to now be held on 9 April 2019 (instead of 16 April 2019)

The Council also AGREED to revisit Committee meeting dates scheduled for October 2019 with a view to avoiding school holidays.

21. Deeds Executed
Sgrìobhainnean Lagha a Bhuilicheadh

The Council NOTED that a list of deeds and other documents executed on behalf of the Council since the meeting held on 25 October 2018 was available in the Members’ Library and on the Council’s Website.

The meeting ended at 5.35 pm.

Report

Volume of Minutes Volume of Minutes (Part 2) Item 4. Director of Public Health on the Annual Report for 2018 Item 5. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Aware Council Item 8. Highland and Western Isles Valuation Joint Board Item 9 Health and Social Care Working Group Minutes - 28 November 2018 Item 10 Committee Membership Tables Item 12i. Question Time - Mr. J McGillivray Item 12ii. Question Time - Mr A Jarvie Item 12iii. Question Time - Mr A Jarvie Item 12iv. Question Time - Mr K Gowans Item 12v. Question Time - Mr K Gowans Item 12vi. Question Time - Mr D Louden Item 12vii. Question Time - Mr D Louden Item 12viii. Question Time - Mr D MacLeod Item 12viiii. Question Time - Ms M Smith Item 12x. Question Time - Ms M Smith Item 12xi. Question Time - Mr R MacWilliam Item 12xii. Question Time - Mr R MacWilliam Item 12xiii. Question Time - Ms P Munro Item 14. Annual Review of The Council Programme Item 14 Appendix 1 Item 15. Your Voice: Budget Engagement and Financial Update Item 16. Options for Funding Future Highland Tourism Development: A Transient Visitor Levy Item 17. Redesign of Highland Council - Progress Report Item 18. Inverness and Highland City Region Deal Annual Report Item 21. Deeds Executed