Decision details

RESOLVED:(i) That the introduction of a free delivery, civic publication based on the management and distribution arrangements exemplified in Option 2b of the report, be agreed in principle, initially for a trial period of 10 issues, and subject to further work by officers to:

a)                 Provide a detailed statement of the advertising budget transfers that will be implemented from Directorates to fund the publication and to ensure that savings of at least £29,000 pa accrue to the Council;

b)                 Provide further details of the steps that they propose  to take to address the concerns of any residents who would prefer not to receive the new publication;

c)                  Provide further details and justification for the establishment of a full time publications assistant post;

d)                 Provide further information on the scope for increasing advertising income from other public service bodies and major companies in the City;

e)                 Using the Local Government Association (LGA) if necessary, further explore the possibility of the publication being used to satisfy statutory public notice requirements;

f)                    Address the following concerns raised by the Shadow Executive:

·        “The publication must ensure that job advertising was appropriate in terms of its status, geographic catchment and inclusivity;

·        Should have regard to any adverse economic consequences on pursuing the option (2b)”;

                        (ii) That an updated edition of the A-Z of Council Services be published towards the end of the year.

REASON:(i) On the grounds that it is the most economic option, with the most innovative approach and the best distribution guarantees;

                        (ii) To repeat the successful publication of an A-Z of Council Services.