Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Mark Wilkinson.

Councillors’ declarations of interest (if any) in relation to any items on the agenda.

None.

To approve the minutes of the meeting held on 7 July 2016.

RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 7 July 2016 are agreed as a correct record and signed by the Leader.

Any matters arising from the minutes of the previous meeting.

To review the Sub Committee’s work plan.

The Work Plan was noted.

To receive an update on the project plan for the transition of the Council’s housing and environmental services from the current Joint Venture Company of HTS (Property and Environment) Limited.

The Sub-Committee received an update on the transition from the current Joint Venture Company to HTS (Property and Environment) Limited.

The Sub-Committee noted the progress which had been made on the IT network installation, improvements to software and the use of SAGE software which would allow the company to process of HR and payroll. It was also noted that consultations had commenced with both the trade unions and employees.

John Phillips, Managing Director of HTS (Property and Environment) Limited, outlined the fleet leasing arrangements and explained how cloud technology would be utilised. A new Finance Director had been appointed earlier in the month.

The Sub-Committee noted the Transition Board’s role in resolving problems and the escalation procedures which were in place, should they be needed.

The Leader asked for a copy of the minutes for the most recent Transition Board meeting.

RESOLVED that the Transition Plan Update was noted.

To approve adoption of the HTS Group Ltd Articles of Association.

The Sub-Committee considered the Articles of Association for HTS Group Limited, which were recommended for adoption.

RESOLVED that the HTS Group Ltd Articles of Association be adopted.

To consult on report from Board on 11 October 2016.

The Sub-Committee received a report on the proposed appointment of Ernst Young as external auditors to HTS (Property & Environment) Limited.

RESOLVED  that the Sub-Committee noted:

A.   The Board’s proposed appointment of Ernst Young as external auditors to HTS (Property & Environment) Limited for the first fourteen month trading period.

B.   That the terms and conditions of the appointment be agreed by the Company Secretary.

C.   That a further report is to be provided to the Board following completion and implementation of the planned national framework to deliver external audit services to Local Authorities and their wholly owned trading companies.

To receive an update on the Services Agreement contract for the Council’s housing and environmental services between Harlow Council and HTS (Property and Environment) Ltd.

The Sub-Committee received an update on the Services Agreement contract between the Council and HTS (Property and Environment) Ltd.

RESOLVED that the Services Agreement contract be noted.

To deal with any matters of an urgent nature.

None.

19 January 2017

24 November 2016 (if needed).

19 January 2017.