County council meets in Maidstone

Among the items considered by Members were changes to the terms of reference for the Planning Applications Committee to reflect requirements by UK Government, a Treasury Management Year End Report, which updates on the organisation’s financial resources, and an update on committees within the council.

The meeting, held on Thursday 17^th September, followed a single-item special gathering of county council Members to vote on a motion to award the Brigade of Gurkhas with the Freedom of the Kent.

Three motions for time limited debate were also discussed:

• The Liberal Democrat group’s motion “Veterans as a Strategic Reserve for Community Resilience” received 69 votes in favour and no votes against or abstentions.
• The Green Party group’s motion on “20mph for Safer Communities” received 16 votes in favour, 48 votes against and 5 abstentions.
• The Restore Britain group’s motion on “Extension of Free Bus Travel for Concessionary Pass Holders Before 9:30am” received 17 votes in favour, 4 votes against and 48 abstentions.

Leader of the Council, Linden Kemkaran, said in her report to the council that she continues to engage with South East Water’s new leadership and reflected on the work to ensure the best value for money from every pound spent by the county council.

She added that she would continue to write to UK Government following their decision to pause the implementation of Local Government Reorganisation in Kent and Medway.

Leader of the Council, Linden Kemkaran, said: “It was a privilege for Members to start today's meeting by awarding the Freedom of the County of Kent to the Brigade of Gurkhas, recognising its distinguished service and longstanding connection with our county.

"County Council meetings are also an important opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Kent. Today Members considered a number of important reports and debated motions raised by political groups, while also receiving updates on major developments across the county.

“Whether it’s making sure taxpayers get value for money, backing major projects that will benefit local communities, or standing up for Kent when Government decisions affect our county, we will continue to put residents first.”