Policy & Resources Committee

1.    To advise the Authority on its Medium Term Plan and budget strategy and precept level.

Specific agenda items would be likely to include: revenue estimates including the amount of council tax to be charged; capital programme; financing policies including capital borrowing policies and use of reserves and balances; fees and charges; sponsorship; monitoring of the Community Fire Safety Plan.

2.    To ensure that processes are in place which deliver effective controls and audit functions.

Specific agenda items would be likely to include; monitoring the Authority's expenditure and the finance and contracting elements of the Management Framework; approving the internal audit programme and any consequent action plan; liaison with external auditors over appointment, fees, management letter and any consequent action plan; approval of final outturn and annual statement of accounts.  Monitoring of the Authority's Corporate Governance and Risk management arrangements and consideration of reports under the CPA process.

3.    To consider and report back on any matters referred by the Authority for recommendation or decision.

Specific items might include; consultation papers on national Fire Service issues, resource strategies for Information Systems or Property.

4.    To make decisions on urgent matters.

When the urgency and significance of a matter is such that the Chief Fire Officer, in consultation with the Chairman, deems it necessary for Member consultation on a particular issue and a full Authority meeting is not scheduled.

5.    To consider Member Activity Reports each year and report to the Authority as appropriate.

*With effect from 9 June 2005, the Policy and Resources Committee will consist of 12 Members (application of current proportionality: 8 Conservatives, 3 Labour, 1 Liberal Democrat).  It will be chaired by the Chairman of the Authority and will normally meet twice a year, with a third meeting held if necessary.


*Subject to approval by the Authority on 9 June 2005.

Approved by the Authority on 24 March 1998 and amended by the Authority on 16 September 2003 and 23 September 2004.

 
03/KMTFA/Official Docn/Terms of Ref P&R