The Conference on Local Government organised by the Wilts Association of Local Councils on 16th November was well attended by over 60 Councillors and Council Clerks. Frank Eggleton, Chairman of WALC, opened the conference by introducing Sarah Thomas, Policy Office for NALC.

Sarah rattled through the presentation that would have been delivered by John Findlay, Chief Executive of NALC, who was unable to attend. She explained that NALC would be putting forward proposals for implementing 'Best Value' in Local Government and that a Website would be available to support the initiative.

Second to speak was Jeff Steady, recently moved to the District Audit in Wiltshire. Although Jeff was able to explain the Local Government Act of 1999 and the general duty of 'Best value' including the 4 Cs, Consult; Compare; Challenge; Compete; his presentation was not well received provoking descriptive responses such as 'arrogant', 'condescending' and 'patronising'. Looks like Jeff will have his work cut out learning to deal with Clerks in Wiltshire!

By contrast, the third speaker, Dunstable Town Clerk Richard Walden, was inspirational. He was able to demonstrate how his Council is promoting 'Community Activity', a key element of the 'Best Value' proposals. The 33,500 population of Dunstable is contacted regularly by way of the annual meeting, newsletters and liaison with residents, business and other associations. Twenty-eight full time employees work with the £1.1m revenue budget that equates to band D Council Tax of £65.57. Richard was able to demonstrate how to set objectives and monitor results, effectively, in a simple yet relevant fashion.

To conclude the morning session delegates were divided into workshop groupings to study the results of different community projects in Wiltshire.

In the afternoon Mark Boden, Chief Executive of Kennet District Council, spoke about dealing with the administrative burden of 'Best Value' and explained how his Council would absorb new working practices. He stressed the importance of Collaboration, suggesting that this should be the fifth 'C'.

The last speaker, Keith Robinson, Chief Executive of Wiltshire County Council, saw the new legislation as an opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to local government. He wants to see continuous improvement achieved through a policy of early intervention and action. The County Council's role should be to effect change and not just provide services.

The day finished with a second round of workshops for delegates to learn from community project presentations including; 'Planning for Real(r)', an initiative by Community First and 'Visioning', as applied to a community in Calne.

Conclusion:
By far the most impressive presentation of the day was from Richard Walden. The supporting documents that he provided illustrate succinctly how Dunstable Town Council is already meeting most of the requirements of 'Best Value'.
The mood of the conference was antagonistic towards the Audit Commission. Many Clerks and Councils have horror stories to tell about the District Audit. Clearly there is a need for a simpler means of illustrating a Council's financial reports.
WALC organised a very effective conference that highlighted the challenges ahead that will affect all Councils, big and small. Perhaps the clearest message to emerge is that there is plenty to be learnt from how other Councils are addressing the new legislation. The electronic transmission of information, via the Internet, will provide an invaluable means by which Council's can compare solutions and work together for the common good.

Richard Parsons is Clerk to West Dean Parish Council, Salisbury, Wilts. SP5 1JQ. He can be contacted by e-mail at: rparsons@thecouncilclerk.com or Tel: 01794 341405.

Copyright (c) 1999 Richard Parsons. All rights reserved.
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