Agenda item

The Board considered a report of the Strategic Director – Corporate and Policy regarding the adoption of the Council’s Departmental Service Plans for 2009-2012 as a basis for action and performance monitoring.

It was noted that Departmental Service Plans sat within an established planning framework and were central to the Council’s Performance Management arrangements. They provided a clear statement on what individual services were planning to achieve, particularly in terms of service objectives and performance indicators, and how this contributed to the corporate priorities of the Council. They were an essential tool for making key decisions about future service provision and the level of resources required.

It was noted that, as final year-end performance information became available, future targets for both national and local performance indicators may require some revision. Following the approval of the budget by full Council in March, budgetary statements would be inserted into plans. Any revisions that were necessary as a result of this approval would be incorporated before plans were finalised. In addition, service plans were subject to ongoing discussion to ensure that they were of the highest quality and met organisational requirements. This may result in some minor refinement, for example of “Smart” target/key milestone data.

Reasons for Decision

Departmental Service Plans were central to the Council’s Performance Management arrangements. As such, it was necessary for them to be approved before the start of the new financial year in order that the effective monitoring of progress could take place.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None.

Implementation Date

1^st April 2009.

RESOLVED: That

(1)       this set of advanced draft service plans be received; and

(2)            authority be delegated to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader, to make any final amendments and adjustments that may be required and to approve the final Service Plans.