To receive announcements and business brought forward by the Mayor, Leader, and Members of the Cabinet or the Chief Executive.
4.1 By the Mayor:
4.2 By the Chief Executive:
4.3 By the Group Leaders: Any apologies for absence
4.4 Council Leader and Members of the Cabinet:
Councillor Williams Leader of the Council
Councillor Banks Communities
Councillor Anderson Place
Councillor Elliot Corporate Services
Councillor Griffiths Housing Services
Councillor Williams Commercial Strategy and Delivery
Councillor Barrett Neighbourhood Services
Minutes:
Apologies were noted on behalf of Cllrs Wyatt-Lowe, Oguchi, Allen, McDowell.
Portfolio Holders Updates
Cllr Williams – Leader of the Council
Cllr Williams noted that he was asked to write to the Police and Crime Commissioner and Secretary of State for Energy Security. A reply is still awaited and these will be circulated once received.
Cllr Banks – Portfolio Holder Communities
Cllr Banks advised that the Air Quality Action Plan has been updated and the revocation of the air quality management area at North Church has been approved by Cabinet. It was also confirmed that capital funding has been secured to replace and relocate the real-time air quality analyser. Cllr Banks noted that the Food Service Recovery Plan has been approved. Two unrelated fly-tipping offences have been prosecuted, with both convicted after pleading guilty to the unauthorised depositing of controlled waste in rural locations across the borough, and were collectively ordered to pay fines of £4,630, costs of £3,461 and a victim surcharge of £533. It is hoped that the press release will help deter those who seek to fly tip in the district.
Cllr Banks noted the nomination for Keep Britain Tidy Excellence in Environmental Enforcement Award, and advised that whilst Ben Stephens had narrowly missed out on the main award, the Council congratulated BStephens, the team and Dacorum for its achievements.
Cllr Banks commented on the Golden PawPrint Award that was awarded to DBC for its excellent service provided around stray dogs. It was noted that the Council has responsibilities for the Animal Welfare Act and any concerns should be reported through the Animal Welfare inbox.
Cllr Banks confirmed that the website is being regularly updated with cost of living advice and that Community Action Decorum are running a series of community engagement events in the coming weeks.
Cllr Banks advised that the next round of community grants will be running in April and additional points are being awarded for those looking at cost of living support and the King's Coronation.
On community safety, Cllr Banks noted that all members present have been given hard copies of 'If You See It, Say It', and that electronic copies are also available.
Cllr England asked what the Portfolio Holder is doing regarding the discovery of poor air quality at the junction of Marlowes and Queensway, which has been found to be above the legal limit in 2021 and is now as bad as Lawn Lane and London Road, Apsley.
Cllr Banks reminded members and residents that there are currently only three areas that are above Defra guidelines and that they are working closely with stakeholders and partners, including HCC, to ensure that remedial actions are being taken to bring levels under control.
Cllr England noted that the ASR for 2021 showed readings taken in Marlowes and Queensway were as bad as Lawn Lane and London Road, Apsley, and asked what action the Portfolio Holder had taken when notified of the breach on 21st December 2022 and why she had not asked for it to be reported to SPAE.
Cllr Banks advised that the borough monitors air quality and that partners and stakeholders are alerted, such as HCC, to issues that are being faced. Cllr Banks stated that she was not aware of the information that Cllr England had raised and agreed to confer with officers before responding.
Cllr Pringle commented on the increased dog attacks, particularly in North Church, and what action can be taken to protect dogs and the public. It was noted that people are reporting an increase in dog on dog attacks in and around North Church, and Cllr Pringle stated that her own dog was nearly killed after being attacked by a dog. The impact of this on vulnerable members of society was noted and Cllr Pringle noted that dog on dog attacks can't be reported to the police under the Dangerous Dog Act and that wardens have stated that they have difficulty in gathering evidence. Cllr Pringle asked if a full review of what powers dog wardens have should be undertaken and provide proper training to ensure they can undertake further action. Cllr Pringle noted that attacks are taking place due to irresponsible owners and that it is only a matter of time before a child is attacked.
Cllr Banks agreed with the comments made and referred to Box Moor Trust's promotion of keeping dogs on leads and away from cattle. Cllr Banks noted that DBC was awarded the Golden PawPrint for its commitment to looking after strays and that the Public Space Protection Order requires that owners must demonstrate that they have a lead and put the dog on the lead should there be an issue. It was noted that the police are limited in what actions they can take and Cllr Banks asked for evidence of any incidents to be sent to the Animal Welfare inbox.
Cllr Pringle commented on areas where similar offences have taken place and suggested that these cases should be investigated as such to check if they are linked.
Cllr Banks stated that incidents need to be reported to allow for any patterns to be identified.
Cllr Guest asked what the definition is of controlled waste.
Cllr Banks explained that controlled waste is items that should be properly disposed of, such as building materials and hazardous items.
Cllr Guest asked if the prosecution of individuals fly-tipping controlled waste is a good deterrent to prevent such incidents happening in future.
Cllr Banks advised that this is why she is keen for successful prosecutions to be advertised locally and in surrounding districts to highlight how unacceptable the behaviour is.
Cllr Bhinder requested information on DBC arrangements with regards to the King's Coronation.
Cllr Banks confirmed that the main events will take place in Gadebridge on 6th and 7th May 2023. A large screen in Gadebridge Park will broadcast the coronation on 6th May and there will be additional family entertainment. On 7th May there will be stalls in Gadebridge Park and on the Old Town High Street with a live screening of the coronation concert from Windsor.
The Mayor queried if there are plans to advertise coronation events more widely.
Cllr Banks confirmed that events will be advertised across social media and other communication channels.
Cllr Maddern noted the antisocial behaviour in Bunkers Park and asked what action can be taken.
Cllr Banks acknowledged the antisocial behaviour reports associated with Bunkers Park and confirmed that she would report back on this separately.
ACTION: Cllr Banks to report back to Cllr Maddern on antisocial behaviour in Bunkers Park.
Cllr Anderson – Portfolio Holder Place
Cllr Anderson reported on the housing moratorium, confirming that DBC is continuing to work through the backlog of residential applications, and once developers have agreed the financial contributions involved, councillors have collected £73,000 for council-owned SANG.
On Marshcroft Farm, Tring, Cllr Anderson noted the appeal against the refusal of 1,400 homes starts at 10am on 7th March 2023 and is due to end on 12th April 2023. The outcome will have a significant impact on Dacorum and Cllr Anderson reassured members that the Council has put in considerable effort in contesting the appeal.
Cllr Anderson noted the Community Infrastructure Levy ("CIL"), advising that last week's Cabinet agreed to release a small proportion of the Council's core CIL funding so it can be spent on local infrastructure improvement projects. Cabinet considered recommendations from the Infrastructure Advisory Group on the bids for this funding and Cllr Anderson advised that the process would be discussed as part of the agenda.
Cllr Anderson advised that the Council has been notified that London Luton Airport Ltd is due to submit a development consent order for the expansion of the airport later this month. Officers are working with other host authorities to coordinate objections during the determination process.
Cllr Anderson stated that the Economic Recovery Plan is continuing. Cllr Anderson noted that it has been confirmed by the government that the Council is receiving £1.76m over 3 years from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and the Council is working with partners, including the voluntary sector, on the spending plan. Following the news regarding Amazon, it was noted that work continues with partners to address this.
On the Place Strategy, Cllr Anderson confirmed that the Council and its partner are continuing to analyse results from the Hemel Place Survey and the different narratives for Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted and Town for the various stages for development.
For the Hemel Hempstead Old Town Strategy, Cllr Anderson confirmed that phase 2 of improvements is continuing and arrangements are being put in place for the Coronation as well as for Armed Forces Day on 24th June.
Cllr Wilkie asked the Portfolio Holder if he agrees that the DBC's justification to build on green belt land for the local plan will now be used as evidence against them in the appeal for Marshcroft development.
Cllr Anderson stated that he did not agree as Regulation 18 consultations are not set in stone and the period will be used to demonstrate what the targeted house building will do to the local area and gather evidence to contest the plan. It has been made clear another Regulation 18 will be undertaken and government guidance will be used to reign back on green belt development.
The Mayor clarified that it is not the policy of the Council to approve building on green belt land at this stage. Cllr Anderson stated that it is the Council's policy to minimise the amount of green belt development as much as possible.
Cllr Wilkie asked if the King's Council for Marshcroft have 22 witnesses and are using quotes from the local plan to build on green belt land.
The Mayor noted that the local plan is still in draft.
Cllr Anderson acknowledged the comment and referred to his previous response.
Cllr Pringle asked why the Portfolio Holder and majority party unanimously refuse to rewrite and reconsult when they had the opportunity to do so following the proposed motion of February 2021.
Cllr Anderson asked for clarification on the question.
Cllr Pringle asked the Portfolio Holder why he and the majority party had voted down a motion to do what they are now committed to do, namely to rewrite and reconsult on the local plan, when such a motion was put to the Council in February 2021.
Cllr Anderson stated that he did not accept the interpretation of the debate.
Cllr Pringle asked the Portfolio Holder to review the minutes of February 2021 and to report back on this at the next full Council.
Cllr Anderson confirmed that he would re-read the minutes and stated that it would be beneficial to establish what the debate was about as the administration has not refused to support anything that would materially reduce the amount of green belt development.
Cllr Symington commented on the Place Strategy, noting that it is excellent that Dacorum has funded some consultancy to bring forward these strategies, and asked what role the strategies will play in the future development of Dacorum.
Cllr Anderson noted his support of the place strategies as they allow communities to consider their areas and what improvements can be made. Cllr Anderson stated that representatives in Tring are looking to take advantage of the strategy and advised that they allow people to show leadership in getting improvements for their communities.
Cllr Symington asked if the Portfolio Holder is prepared to commit funds to allow individual communities to develop these strategies.
Cllr Anderson stated that they will first need to establish where strategies are going though this will be considered in future.
Cllr Stevens commented on the consultation regarding the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and asked if the Council has made a response to it.
Cllr Anderson confirmed that an update on this will be sent to all members.
Cllr Hollinghurst noted the draft local plan and asked the Portfolio Holder why it was discovered they had not adequately addressed the place strategies for Hemel Hempstead and Tring, amongst other places, several years ago.
Cllr Anderson stated that he did not accept there was an omission and commented on the criticism made by the opposition when the Chilterns beechwood issue arose, though it was only by following Regulation 18 that they were able to commission the report that provided the issue and how to resolve it.
Cllr Hollinghurst thanked the member for the answer and stated that he had not mentioned the Chiltern Beechwood.
Cllr Elliot – Portfolio Holder Corporate Services
Cllr Elliot commented that the finance service has continued on the 2023-24 budget and council tax declaration. Formal approval of the budget and proposed council tax levels will be presented to Council later in the evening, and is the culmination of several months of hard work by the Finance team in conjunction with the budget holders to ensure strategic and operational requirements are financially supported. Draft budget proposals were presented to Joint Overview Scrutiny in February. The finance service has also been working closely with commercial project leads and external commercial experts to develop the final business cases to shape the future commercial portfolio.
Cllr Elliot noted that the Revenue and Benefits team continues to work effectively in costing out the 2023-24 annual council tax and business rates bill. Following the production of the government's 2023-24 business rates revaluation and the schedule of business rates relief, the process has been more complex, though the service will continue to achieve the standards timetabled. The Council is not responsible for setting business rate relief, the relief has been welcomed in how it is helping support the local economy of Dacorum.
Cllr Elliot noted that the Benefits team has been carrying out the annual uprating of benefit awards and working closely with housing colleagues to ensure new rates are included with information regarding rents from April. The legal team continues to support the core Council service delivery and key corporate strategies to support legislative frameworks in place and is assessing options for shared services with neighbouring Hertfordshire authorities.
Cllr Elliot advised that election preparations are underway with all polling stations booked and over 350 roles being filled. Awareness for photo ID in polling stations has begun and the online voter certificate application website went live on 16th January 2023 for those who do not have ID. The notice for election will be published on 21st March with poll cards distributed on 22nd March. Due to additional information to explain voter ID requirements, poll cards will be A4 and in an envelope when delivered.
Cllr Elliot advised that the People and Transformation team is making good progress with successful appointments with 2 key roles. The HR team have been supporting key senior appointments across the Council, and the recent recruitment success will be enhanced by the new Market Forces Policy, which was recently approved. New KPIs have been approved and form a key element of the new performance management framework to ensure that DBC is an evidence-driven Council. The new complaints policy has also gone live and is already having a positive impact.
Cllr Elliot noted that the Communications team have been busy supporting major pieces of work, including the Garden Waste Programme, and planning for the King's Coronation.
Cllr Tindall commented on the polling cards being delivered in envelopes due to voter ID information and suggested that any messages inside may not be read until too late, which may be an issue for younger voters who may not have a driver's licence or passport. Cllr Tindall asked if messaging will be put on the outside of the envelope to note that voter ID will be required.
Cllr Elliot suggested that voter ID enhances democracy and referred to regular communication regarding voter ID. Cllr Elliot stated that he has found most people are aware of voter ID whilst out canvassing and suggested that young people should be able to submit for voter ID easily. Cllr Elliot suggested that the size of the envelope should alert residents to the fact that it is different this time.
Cllr Tindall suggested that Cllr Elliot be less complacent, noting that it will be staff who are manning the polling stations that will suffer the most, and asked again that they consider marking the outside of the envelope regarding the need for voter ID.
Cllr Elliot agreed to consider this further.
Cllr Ransley noted that not all residents have access to a computer and asked what arrangements are made for those who do not have voter ID.
Cllr Elliot commented that most communities have a community centre and those without voter ID, a phone or Internet access can go to the community centre to contact the Council.
Cllr England asked if the withdrawal of the £230,000 annual AFM money for waste services for recycling could have been avoided if the Portfolio Holder had made a stronger case to HCC.
Cllr Elliot advised that this was a HCC policy.
Cllr England stated that he was aware of the policy and was present when they were told that none of the local authorities had made their argument. Cllr England asked if the Portfolio Holder has made any arguments to HCC on behalf of DBC as to what innovations the AFM money could have been spent on.
Cllr Elliot confirmed that this was budgeted for as it was anticipated that this money would be withdrawn.
Cllr Barry-Mears asked if the Council can look to expand what is accepted as voter ID, particularly for younger residents.
Cllr Elliot suggested that residents contact the Council and noted that younger residents can apply for free voter ID online.
Cllr Pringle asked the Portfolio Holder how entitled and out of touch he appears in failing to recognise the isolation in which some families live where they limit the amount of data used on mobile phones. Cllr Pringle noted those in marginalised communities who need to vote to ensure that their voice is heard and that they should not make generalisations about young people.
Cllr Elliot noted that there are community centres and libraries that people can access to get voter ID via the Internet for free.
Cllr Pringle suggested that the Portfolio Holder would not take proactive steps to inform marginalised young people of their right to exercise their franchise and asked why this is.
Cllr Elliot took issue at the member accusing him of not caring for the more vulnerable in society and suggested that the Council has taken all the action it deems necessary in making Internet access available to the wider public.
Cllr Harden asked the Portfolio Holder to confirm whose policy it is for voter ID as it appeared that the opposition were stating that the Portfolio Holder had created it. Cllr Harden suggested that the younger generation are keen to get voter ID.
Cllr Elliot agreed that voter ID is a central government initiative that he fully supports and that it helps ensure democracy is transparent.
The Mayor informed Cllr Hollinghurst that if he continued to intervene then he would be removed.
Cllr Griffiths – Portfolio Holder for Housing
Cllr Griffiths wished a happy Founders' Day to all.
Cllr Griffiths noted that the Housing Transformation Improvement Programme ("HTIP") was relaunched via webinar and that resources are being increased to respond to reports of damp and mould, and is increasing resources to improve aids and adaptations delivered. Work has started on the Asset Management strategy, Energy and Environmental Sustainability strategy for social housing, and the Greener Herts Consortium bid wave two funding is expected soon.
Cllr Griffiths advised that rent arrears as a percentage of the annual debt is at 4.2% compared to 4.23% last year. Court cost arrears continue to reduce and are now at 17.6%. Service charges are sense checked against historical errors and are ready for live upload this week. There are currently 140 open cases regarding former tenant arrears, 11 on arrangement, with a total outstanding balance of around £217,000. Proactive engagement with former tenants in some circumstances has negated the need for Jacobs to open case files and interventions.
Cllr Griffiths confirmed that High Town Housing Association is working with the Community Safety Team to address ongoing concerns at Peacock Court development, where several residents have submitted urgent requests to move. A targeted plan is being developed to address the root cause. High Town Housing Association and Housing Needs are looking at reletting the top floor of Lord Alexander House following the completion of roof works.
Cllr Griffiths noted the community alarm monitoring renewal documents will be reviewed by the Commissioning Board in March and community alarm upgrades have started at Gravel Lane. Progress is being made with estate inspection checks with over 30 checks completed each week over the last two weeks and over 60 sessions have been hosted in communal lounges over the last three months. 14,005 tenant contacts were completed in the last three months with 355 referrals forwarded to other agencies. Proactive engagement with the Dacorum Outreach team has positively affected rough sleeping numbers, reducing numbers to three, compared to seven last year. Five warrants were successfully issued regarding housing standards casework.
Cllr Griffiths advised that tall buildings work began on KD Tower and an investigation is due to start, with the officer leading making a proposal for a joint approach with Building Control and the Fire Authority.
Cllr Griffiths confirmed that the 26-room HMO application has resulted in action taken against the Dacorum-based business.
Cllr Griffiths advised that construction activities continue to progress well and grant funding has been approved for High Town for 66 books. Recruitment of the investment team has been completed with a new starter joining in the coming months, and the recruitment of a new head of service has commenced.
Cllr Freedman commented on service charges, noting that in previous years he had spoken about putting a cap on annual rises and asked if this has been considered along with the effect of all service charges on tenants.
Cllr Griffiths noted that there are no new service charges and that they are ensuring charges are in line with what it costs the Council to deliver the service. Whilst a provision has been put for any new service charge being proportionate, this is not what is being referred to.
Cllr Freedman asked for clarification on proportionate and asked if the Council will be managing costs temporarily to minimise impact on tenants.
Cllr Griffiths confirmed that she would provide additional information on this outside of the meeting.
Cllr Maddern advised that she was recently contacted by a resident in Gade Tower followed by an email from the headteacher at Nash Mills School regarding concerns about the mental health and wellbeing of the families who live in Gade Tower and attend the school. Cllr Maddern explained that she visited four flats in Gade Tower and the communal areas this week and stated that describing it as being in a 'shocking state' would be an understatement. Cllr Maddern advised that she is putting together a portfolio and will be meeting there with officers tomorrow. Cllr Maddern asked if Gade Tower is the only block that requires demolition.
Cllr Griffiths confirmed that they are undertaking a stock condition survey on every property over a 5-year period, which will feed into strategic plans for any given area. Cllr Griffiths stated that it is highly likely that Gade Tower is the worst and that she was not proud of this, though there may be issues elsewhere. Cllr Griffiths confirmed they are addressing this proactively and action will be taken.
Cllr Maddern asked if the Portfolio Holder would like a copy of her report once it is complete.
Cllr Griffiths confirmed that she would and acknowledged that officers are also working on this.
Cllr England noted that SPAE was recently informed that air quality is a particular risk to those living adjacent to areas of poor air quality and asked if the Portfolio Holder agreed that the suitability of temporary accommodation in DBC housing in London Road, Apsley, a site of poor air quality, should therefore be reviewed.
Cllr Griffiths asked if the suggestion is to put people into bed and breakfast accommodation instead. Cllr Griffiths noted that housing is being monitored and confirmed that she would not leave someone homeless and have empty properties on the basis of possible air quality issues.
Cllr England confirmed that he was referring to the area covered by the Air Quality Action Plan since 2012 and noted that SPAE were recently informed of the impact for those who live next to a poor air quality area. Cllr England clarified that his suggestion was not to make people homeless and that they should look to house people somewhere safer.
Cllr Griffiths queried if they should instead use the space for permanent accommodation rather than temporary or if it should not be used for housing at all. Cllr Griffiths noted that there is a finite housing resource and that she would not leave properties empty.
Cllr Dhyani referred to the additional resources and asked how they are handling the backlog regarding damp and mould.
Cllr Griffiths noted the additional resources of around £200,000 to respond to damp and mould, both in staffing and remedial repairs. All reported incidents are investigated with actions taken.
Cllr Dhyani asked if Osborne is being used in any of the areas.
Cllr Griffiths noted that they would be used for structural issues and would therefore be using Osborne and other services.
Cllr Freedman commented on the Solar Together scheme that was launched last year and asked if there was any data on the take-up of this.
Cllr Griffiths advised that this was not part of her portfolio and advised that she applied for the scheme and is having solar panels fitted in the coming weeks.
Cllr Freedman asked that he be informed of the take-up when available to assess if it should be considered again in future.
ACTION: Cllr Griffiths to provide further information to Cllr Freedman regarding service charges.
Cllr Williams – Portfolio Holder Commercial Strategy and Delivery
Cllr Williams referred to the query regarding solar panels and confirmed that he would provide the update when available.
Cllr Williams confirmed that they have had confirmation that the full grant application has been received for the EV charging programme and they are now in the final stages of agreeing contracts. The grant is for £415,360 and will cover 60% of costs to instal 108 EV charge points in 18 car parks across the borough, and will be part of a £2.7m investment in providing EV chargers.
Cllr Symington thanked the Portfolio Holder for the progress on EV charging and asked when the charging points will be installed and delivered.
Cllr Williams stated that 75% of the funding will come through as a first payment and the installation of chargers will be phased, with some larger charging points requiring planning permission, and one will require a new substation. There will be a report to the next Finance and Resources Scrutiny Committee.
Cllr Tindall commented on the published concerns about the cost of heating swimming pools and leisure centres and asked if there was any involvement to appeal to the government to ask for any additional funding.
Cllr Williams advised that they are engaged in discussions with the operator about costs and confirmed he would look into whether any direct applications to government have been made.
Cllr Elliot asked the Portfolio Holder to pass on his thanks regarding the gym refurbishment by Everything Active, describing it as a pristine facility that has been well received by those using it.
Cllr Williams confirmed that the comments would be passed on.
Cllr Stevens queried if alternative methods to heat swimming pools have been investigated, noting that other authorities have commissioned alternative methods to help reduce costs.
Cllr Williams advised that this was looked into previously when refurbishing equipment and that there wasn't equipment robust enough to provide the levels of heating required.
Cllr Stevens suggested that this be investigated again.
Cllr Williams advised that they would not replace working equipment though it will be considered during any refurbishment in due course.
ACTION: Cllr Williams to circulate take-up figures of solar panels when available.
ACTION: Cllr Williams to check if any direct applications have been made to government regarding swimming pool heating costs.
Cllr Barrett – Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services
Cllr Barrett noted that contractors have commenced refurbishment at the food and garden waste base at Cupid Green and all frontline staff have received annual refresher training. Persistent organic pollutants are now being collected separately from other bulk household items. A new recycling leaflet will be distributed to residents in the coming works and artwork is being updated to detail recycling methods. Preparations are underway for the Great British Spring Clean and three litter picking groups have already been arranged with a further 28 volunteers litter-picking as part of Duke of Edinburgh Award activities. Design of new signs for the butterfly bank at Warners End has commenced and two school visits have been completed as well as a community talk delivered to the Wigginton WI regarding recycling.
Cllr Barrett advised that quotations have been received for a new brushwood chipper and the order is now being processed. Discussions are ongoing regarding defining future policy around trees and communal areas, and new gates have been installed along Bunkers Lane and within Bunkers Park. On Clean Safe Green, the A41 litter clearance will take place in early March and there is a recruitment drive for permanent roles and summer temporary roles. A maintenance contract has been agreed for the splash park and quotations have been received to replace the Astroturf.
Cllr Barrett noted that residents at Bennetts End have been met and it has been agreed to create a new wildflower area in early March, and a new gate has been installed. Weekly volunteer days are being held at the Water Gardens and a new apprentice has been taken on to work with the Parks team.
Cllr Freedman asked for reassurance regarding green bin collections, noting that he has signed on for collections and suggested that stickers are rarely placed towards the road. Cllr Freedman asked if officers will check bins and not reject them if they are placed the wrong way.
Cllr Barrett stated that he was confident that operatives will pay attention to which bins do and don't have stickers.
Cllr Barry-Mears noted that she has been asked by residents if there is an update on the number of people who have signed up to green bin collections.
Cllr Barrett confirmed that, to date, 15,883 residents have signed up to the green waste subscription, which is 105.82% of the projected target. This should bring in an additional income of over £700,000 to the Council in this financial year.
Cllr Barry-Mears asked if more would be spent in fuel with lorries covering areas for green bin collections.
Cllr Barrett suggested that they would only be collecting green bins for those who have signed up to the service and therefore they would be spending less.
Cllr England asked if only 650 of 1,000 litter bins have bags in them would be a good way to run a service, and asked what they are doing to respond to the levels of litter being collected by street champions to help Dacorum be tidier across all 25 wards.
Cllr Barrett stated that he did not understand the question. Cllr Barrett apologised for any offence caused.
Cllr Barrett suggested that if the question was referring to there being 1,000 street champions and only 650 having collected equipment, he noted that whilst some haven't collected equipment, they are still active as they are using their own equipment.
Cllr Maddern noted the reporting of re-wilding and referred to an email from the Parish Clerk regarding someone digging up the newly planted re-wilding to look at suitability for a new telephone mast. Cllr Maddern asked if anything could be done to prevent this.
Cllr Barrett stated that the utility services have a statutory right to put masts where they wish.
Cllr Pringle commented that she has a green bin sticker and asked what would happen when the QR code is defaced or weathered.
Cllr Barrett confirmed that stickers will be issued manually and should last the full season.