Corporate resources – Council Plan 2008/09

Councillor Tony Reid is the Lead Member for this portfolio.

Our aims

Delivering quality services at the lowest possible Council Tax is a key aim of the Council. This requires us to be clear about what we can and can not afford to do. The process of Reconciling Policy and Resources is a key tool to finding the right balance, as is promoting customer focused productivity and efficiency.

Our approach to resource management is well regarded and must continue to help drive the provision of quality services at affordable costs over the short and medium term. The delivery of long term sustainable budgets remains a challenge.

What we will do (policy steers)

2.1 Deliver the lowest level of council tax consistent with the Council’s core priorities in line with the Council’s policy steers.

2.2 Maintain and improve high standards of resources management across the County Council through:

• Reconciling Policy and Resources
• high quality financial management and control, including the pursuit of “Excellence in Financial Management”
• maximising appropriate and fair local income generation opportunities
• integrated and effective medium term planning
  proactive management of outsourced services contracts
• full involvement of scrutiny and
• effective consultation and communication with residents and partners.

2.3 Maintain and improve high standards of governance, internal control and risk management.

2.4 Drive, in partnership, improvements in efficiency, productivity and procurement to maximise value for money.

2.5 Manage risk and uncertainties in future resourcing through realistic planning and maximising lobbying and influencing opportunities for a fairer grant settlement for East Sussex County Council.

2.6 Maximise the efficiency of the property portfolio on behalf of the Council through:

• effective asset management covering, utilization, maintenance, accessibility and disposals
• effective county-wide capital planning linked to the property necessary to deliver service priorities
• provision of office accommodation better suited to service delivery including modern ways of working, and new HQ possibilities
• effective energy management as a contribution to addressing global warming and
• in conjunction with appropriate client sponsor roles, ensure effective and efficient delivery of capital projects.
  

To find out how we are going to achieve our aims read the Corporate resources planning and management chapter of the Council Plan.