M I N U T E S

 

Parish Council Meeting

St Ewe Village Hall

Monday 16 April 2012

7.00pm – 8.20pm

 

Officers Present:-	Parish Councillors – Chairman Cllr Will Richards , Cllr Allan Brooks, Cllr Diane Clemes, Cllr Rueben Collins, Cllr Janet Lockyer and Cllr Martin Wheeley
Apologies Received:-	Cllr John Dickinson and Cllr Sam Roberts
In Attendance:-	Cllr Robin Teverson – Cornwall Council Rose Hardisty, Clerk
Public Participation:-	2 members of the public in attendance

 

 

001/12  Declarations of interests 

            Cllrs Will Richards and Janet Lockyer declared that they sit on the Village Hall Committee and must therefore declare an interest in the application for a grant for the village celebrations.

 

002/12  Previous Minutes

The minutes of the parish council meeting held on 12 March 2012 having been read were considered a true record and were adopted (proposed AB, seconded MW). 

 

Public Participation 

 

Sue Hawken and Paul Sibley were in attendance to answer any questions the council may have about the village celebration grant request.  No specific questions were necessary and the Chairman proposed that this item be moved up the agenda and dealt with first.

 

003/12  Grant Applications

·            Grant towards village celebrations on 02.06.2012 – St Ewe Village Hall

The clerk gave details of the letter sent after the last meeting seeking clarification of costings and arrangements.  A written response has been received from the organising committee and this was available for the councillors to consider.  Cllrs Will Richards and Janet Lockyer indicated that they supported the application.

 

Cllrs Will Richards and Janet Lockyer left the meeting

 

Cllr Allan Brooks (in the absence of the Vice Chairman) temporarily took chair of the meeting

 

The clerk reminded councillors of the powers under s145 of the Local Government Act 1972 to support entertainments and the arts and any matters ancillary to such provision.  Councillors studied carefully the itemised draft costings provided and also noted where other grant funding had been received.  The council felt it was appropriate to support the following items: mailing and ticket printing (£130), marquee hire (£600), lighting (£100), photographs and sundries expenses (£100) and insurance (£50).  Therefore, the council resolved (proposed MW, seconded RC) to make a grant towards the village celebrations of £980.  In due course the organising committee should provide the parish council with a copy of the accounts in relation to the celebrations.    

 

Cllrs Will Richards and Janet Lockyer rejoined the meeting

 

Cllr Will Richards re-took the chair

 

Two members of the public (Sue Hawken and Paul Sibley) left the meeting

 

 

 

004/12  Councillor Vacancy

·       Accept resignation of Elaine Holmes

The clerk read a letter from Elaine Holmes dated 23.03.2012 stating that she is resigning from the parish council as a result of moving to Ladock.  She expressed thanks to her colleagues on the council, said how much she had enjoyed being a parish councillor and valued the experience.  The Chairman has accepted Mrs Holmes resignation with effect from the date of her letter.  The council was sorry to note that Elaine was leaving but understood her reasons and wished her well in her future adventures.

 

·       Arrangements for vacancy notice, advertisement and appointment of replacement councillor

The clerk has been in contact with the John Simmons of Cornwall Council and he has provided the statutory vacancy notices.  These were posted on 10.04.2012.  If, within 14 days, 10 (or more) electors request an election then one must be held.  If not then the parish council will be free to fill the vacancy by co-option after 30.04.2012.  Any parishioner who is interested in becoming a parish councillor should make contact with the clerk as soon as possible.  The council noted the above and also agreed that an advert for a new councillor be placed in Tower & Spire magazine.

 

005/12  Planning matters

·       12/01193   FP    Proposed conversion and extension of outbuilding to form annex accommodation

                            Little Pengelly Cottage, Sticker, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 7JJ                   

                     Notice of Application withdrawn

 

·       12/01194   FP    Removal of existing storage sheds and erection of 2 holiday lets along with office/storage

                             facilities and tennis court.

                            Land at Vose Farm, Tregony, Cornwall, TR2 5SH                

                     Notice of Approval

 

·       12/01322   FP    Construction of 50kW photovoltaic array, associated equipment and fence

                            Trelewack Farm, St Ewe, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6EX                  

                     Notice of Approval

 

·       12/00527   Pre-Application advice : removal of condition 4 of 06/00336

                            Lobbs Farm Shop, The Countryside Barn, Heligan, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6EN

                     Notice of Advice given – probable application

 

The council noted the above four matters.

 

·       12/02833   FP    Proposed cafe, training facilities, office and agricultural storage building

                             M A Grigg, Pendennis, Lower Sticker, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 7JH

 

The council noted that the clerk only received notice of this application on Saturday and accordingly it was not listed specifically on the agenda.  The clerk has spoken with the planning officer and he is prepared to give an extension of time until 15.05.2012 (ie the day after our next scheduled meeting).  The council then considered whether to deal with the planning application now or postpone full consideration until the next meeting.  It was agreed that the application be considered on 14.05.2012 so that the council may have an opportunity to consider any objections or comments posted on the on-line register by that time.

 

·            No other applications/matters were notified by the date of the meeting.

 

006/12  Highways

·         Maintenance of fingerposts

There was no update as Cllr Dickinson is away.  However, Cllr Teverson would like the matter chasing as he has allocated money for this work to be undertaken by the Highways department.  It was agreed that the clerk would speak to Highways and Cllr Dickinson and a full update will be available at the next meeting.

 

·         Any other urgent matters

No other matters were reported. 

 

007/11  Footpaths

·         Dumping of garden waste on 418/16/1

A letter has been received from a parishioner alleging that garden waste is being dumped on the above public right of way and blocking/restricting the bridleway.  It was agreed that the clerk contact the countryside officer to ask him to investigate this complaint and take action as necessary or advise the parish council on what steps it may take to deal with the matter.  It was also agreed that the clerk should contact Jim Davies and make him aware of the problem and ask him to report back if this is an issue when he undertakes his scheduled path maintenance.

 

·         Any other urgent matters

No other matters were reported. 

 

008/12  Dumping and Fly-Tipping

The clerk has prepared a short article for Tower & Spire and some posters for the problem sites based on information provided by the Envirocrime officer at Cornwall Council.  Councillors approved these documents and agreed that they should be posted/published as appropriate.

 

009/12  Notice Boards

The clerk reported that the new notice board is in position in Polmassick.  There is one problem in that it has a locking mechanism.  The clerk believed she had made it clear that a lock was not wanted but having reviewed the written documentation it is possible that this was open to interpretation.  It is hoped that the problem can be remedied by attaching the key to a chain so the board is available to general use.  It was agreed that the clerk liaise with Lee Price about the issues and report back to the next meeting.

 

010/12  Audit matters

·         Presentation of year-end figures and bank reconciliation

The council viewed the document and it was considered that it showed an accurate representation of the state of financial matters as at 31.03.2012.  It was resolved (proposed AB, seconded JL) that they be approved.

 

·         Consideration of internal auditors report

The internal auditor, Brian Smelt, has reviewed the annual audit form and the council’s accounts together with supporting files and documents.  He has found the accounting to be accurate and found no matters of concern to be recorded on section 4 of the annual audit form.  The council noted with thanks the work of Brian Smelt.

 

·         Consideration and completion of audit commission’s annual return

The council considered the annual audit form and also the variance statement prepared by the clerk.  The variance statement is required by the audit commission to explain significant differences between the figures for the last financial year and the one immediately preceding it.  It was resolved (proposed AB, seconded JL) that the chairman sign section 1 as these figures accord accurately with the year-end figures and also that the council is satisfied with the explanations offered in the variance statement and supporting documents.  Councillors then considered section 2 of the form, the annual governance statement, addressing each question in turn and reaching a conclusion about a response.  Where necessary the clerk provided further information about the ways in which each issue is dealt with by the council.  It was resolved (proposed WR, seconded AB) that a ‘yes’ response was the correct response to all the questions raised save for question 9 where the appropriate response is ‘not applicable’.  Section 2 was then signed by the chairman and the clerk as is required.  The clerk is to submit the necessary papers to the audit commission as soon as possible, keeping a copy for the parish records.  The clerk also advised the council that the accounts are to be made available for public scrutiny and notices have been placed on all the boards about this.  It was further agreed that a notice be put in Tower & Spire advising parishioners of their right to examine parish financial documents.

 

011/12  Financial Matters

·         Approve payments

Payment of the grants agreed and of outstanding invoices received up to the time of the meeting were approved (proposed MW, seconded DC) as detailed below:

St Ewe Village Hall	980.00	Grant towards village celebrations on 02.06.2012
St Ewe Village Hall	60.00	Hall Hire 09.01.2012, 30.01.2012 and 12.03.2012

 

·         Notification of first instalment of precept received

The council noted that the sum of £2,387.37 has been received from Cornwall Council. 

 

·         Presentation of budget for year commencing 01.04.2012

The council viewed the document and it was agreed that it accurately represented the budget proposed during the November meeting (087/11) when the matter of precept was considered.  This budget document will be updated throughout the year and be presented to the council at its regular meetings.

 

·         Bi-monthly financial update, budget review and year-end accounts

The council noted the bi-monthly update and budget review without comment. 

 

012/12  Clerk Issues

The council felt it was appropriate that the clerk leave the meeting to allow the councillors free expression and it was agreed that Cllr Richards would take the minute. 

 

Rose Hardisty left the meeting

 

·         Review number of clerk hours per week

The position of St Ewe clerk is currently allocated four hours per week.  The clerk does not believe this is sufficient to undertake the work required and has asked the council to consider increasing the allocated hours to five per week.  Cllr Allan Brooks spoke on behalf of the employment committee which supports the clerk’s request and was able to give information to councillors about how the proposed changes would affect parish budget and finances.  It was resolved (proposed AB, seconded MW) that the position of Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer to St Ewe Parish Council be increased to five hours per week with effect from 01.04.2012.

 

·         Review salary scale of clerk

The clerk is currently paid at SCP 16 and this has been the case since the commencement of her employment in 2008.  The clerk has requested that this be reviewed and increased in the light of the length of her employment and increased experienced.  Cllr Allan Brooks spoke on behalf of the employment committee which supports this request and it was proposed that the clerk be awarded a two point rise to SCP 18 (currently £8.919/hour).  There has been no inflationary increase in these (nationally set) hourly rates for a couple of years but this might happen this year and if that is the case the clerk would receive the increased rate.  It was resolved (proposed AB, seconded MW) that the clerk be moved to SCP 18 with effect from 01.04.2012.

 

·         Review clerk home office allowance

The clerk receives a ‘Working from Home’ allowance of £10/month.  The clerk has requested that the council raise the ‘Working from Home’ allowance to £4/week to include phone expenses (rather than budgeting separately for this) and the requirement to use her own computer with internet connection (ie covering paragraphs 10.2.1, 10.2.2 and 10.2.3 in the contract of employment).  In practical terms this means an annual increase of £88 (£208 as opposed to the current £120).  Cllr Allan Brooks spoke on behalf of the employment committee who supports this increase.  It was resolved (proposed AB, seconded MW) that the clerk’s ‘Working from Home’ allowance be increased to £4/week with effect from 01.04.2012.

 

The council also wanted it noted that they are pleased with the performance of the clerk and are happy with her work.  It was agreed that Cllr Will Richards will make arrangements with the clerk to undertake a formal review/appraisal in due course.

 

Rose Hardisty re-joined the meeting

 

013/12  New information posted on Notice Boards

·            Minutes of 09.01.2012 and 30.01.2012

(and at www.cornwall.gov.uk/steweparish and http://roseland-online.co.uk/roseland-cornwall-community/parishes/stewe.html)

·            Official Audit Notice

·            Notice of Casual Vacancy (advert for replacement Councillor)

·            Appointment of Members to the Cornwall Countryside Access Forum

The council noted the information posted on the notice boards.

 

015/12  Cornwall Councillor Update

Cllr Teverson reported that the new rubbish and recycling collection arrangements seem to be what are causing residents the most problems at the moment.  He will continue to monitor this and hopes it will improve as the new system settles.  There are some issues with footpaths and highways and in particular he hopes that the money he has allocated with have an impact on the fingerpost works.

 

015/12  Any other business

·         Invitation to Renewable Energy Seminar – 25.04.2012 7.30pm Probus Village Hall

The council noted receipt of this invitation and Cllr Will Richards will attend.  Any other councillor who wishes to attend should make direct contact with Cornwall Councillor Bob Egerton.

 

·         No other business was raised.

 

016/12  Date of next meeting

The date of the next scheduled meeting is Monday 14 May 2012 at 7.00pm which is the Annual Parish Community meeting at 7.00pm, followed by the Parish Council AGM and after that the usual parish business will be dealt with.  Dates of planning meetings are subject to receipt of planning applications and are arranged as and when required.  The date of the next employment committee meeting will be arranged as necessary.

 

Meeting closed at  8.20pm.

 

 

 

M I N U T E S

 

Parish Council Meeting

St Ewe Village Hall

Monday 12 March 2012

7.00pm – 9.45pm

 

Officers Present:-          Parish Cllrs – Chairman Cllr Will Richards , Cllr Allan Brooks, Cllr John Dickinson, Cllr Trevor Johns, Cllr Sam Roberts and Cllr Martin Wheeley 

           

Apologies Received:-  Cllr Diane Clemens, Cllr Rueben Collins, Cllr  Elaine Holmes and Cllr Janet Lockyer

           

In Attendance:-           Rose Hardisty, Clerk

           

Public Participation:-   One member of the public in attendance

           

 

118/11  Declarations of interests 

•          Cllr Sam Roberts declared that he is a close neighbour to planning application 11/10145.

•          Cllr Will Richards declared he is Treasurer of St Ewe Village Hall committee in relation to the grant applications.

 

119/11  Clerking Arrangements

•          Notification that temporary clerking arrangements finished

The council noted that the clerk had a hand back meeting with Jose Ringrose on Tuesday 28.02.2012 but the effective end date for the clerk’s compassionate leave was 05.03.2012.  The council welcomed the return of the clerk.  The council was saddened to learn that Jose Ringrose’s son has been killed in a motorbike accident.   The council wishes to formally express its gratitude to Jose for providing clerk cover and agreed that the clerk should send a letter with payment of her invoice expressing this and the council’s sympathy for her loss.

 

020/11  Previous Minutes

The minutes of the parish council meetings held on 09 January 2012 and 30 January 2012 having been read were considered a true record and were adopted (proposed WR, seconded JD). 

 

Public Participation      

 

Sue Hawken was in attendance to support the application for grant funds towards a village celebration to be held on 02.06.2012.  It will mark the twentieth anniversary of the revamped village hall, the fortieth anniversary of the hall being given to the village and the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.  Approximate costings have been provided for a ceilidh, marquee, insurance, planting, brass band and fireworks.  The sub-committee managing the planned celebrations also seeks ideas from other members of the community for activities which could be incorporated into the day.  The parish council is keen that parishioners from outlying areas of the parish (ie Little Polgooth, Lower Sticker and Hewas Water) are also made to feel included in the day of celebration and asked that efforts are made to publicise the events in these areas.  Sue Hawken indicated that it was the intention of the committee to contact all households in the parish with an invitation.  The parish council will be able to assist in providing information.  There was some discussion about whether events would be charged for and how the attendance of residents and non-residents was to be dealt with.  Councillors also asked what other sources of funding there were for the day and Cllr Richards was able to confirm that other grants were being sought - at a national level linked to the Diamond Jubilee and through the local community chest scheme.  Sue Hawken was able to provide a little bit more information about the plans for the day and that a road closure order would be sought for the period of the afternoon tea and band procession up to the village hall.  A grant of £1000.00 is sought.

 

The council thanked Sue Hawken for attending the meeting and proposed that a decision on whether a grant should be made (and what amount) should be dealt with during the financial part of the meeting so that councillors could fully consider the matter in the round having due regard to current state of parish finances.  The Chairman indicated that Sue Hawken did not need to stay for the remainder of the meeting unless she wished to do so.

 

One member of the public (Sue Hawken) left the meeting

 

021/11  Planning matters

 

•          1/09526            FP         Proposed stone barn with steel frame extension making the

                                    building taller to accommodate modern agriculture

                                    Tregonan Farm, Tregony, Cornwall, TR2 5SN           

Permitted Development Rights, meets criteria

 

The council noted that this development meets the criteria and had no comment to make.

 

•          11/10469          FP         Demolish existing Nissan Hut and replace with detached garage

                                    Rose Villa Barn, Little Polgooth, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 7DD                      

                        Notice of Approval

 

•          11/10501          FP         Proposed grain storage & livestock building

                                    Corran Farm, St Ewe, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6ER                                       

Notice of Approval

 

•          11/10570          FP         Change of Use only, from B8(storage) to B1(studio)

                                    Oldthorns, Little Polgooth, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 7DD

Notice of Approval

 

The council noted receipt of the above three planning decisions.

 

 

•          11/10145          FP         Conversion of existing modern farm building to seasonal campsite facilities

                                    Higher Kestle Farm, St Ewe, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6EP                              

Notice of Refusal

The council noted that this application has been refused.

 

 

•          12/00405          FP         Proposed domestic single garage

                                                The Old Smithy, Trelean Vean Farm, St Ewe, St Austell, Cornwall

Notice of Approval

 

The council noted that this decision was contrary to its recommendations made at the meeting on Monday 30.01.2012.  The clerk was able to confirm that the protocol had been followed and the planning officer had made contact advising that she was minded to make a contrary decision.  The clerk had then liaised with the chairman and it was agreed that the planning officer had dealt sufficiently with the concerns of the parish council to make it inappropriate to pursue the matter to planning committee.

 

•          11/10114          FP         Change of use to site mobile home, utility dayroom and touring caravan

                                                Land off St Stephen Road, Sticker, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 7HA

Neighbouring Parish

 

The council noted the existence of this application but as it has not been formally consulted did not wish to comment.

 

•          12/01193          FP         Proposed conversion and extension of outbuilding to form annex accommodation

                                                Little Pengelly Cottage, Sticker, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 7JJ

 

The council considered the planning documents and felt that the proposed development was of a modest size and in keeping with the rest of the property.  The parish council hopes that a condition will be imposed that the useof the new rooms be limited to uses ancillary to the main dwelling.  It was resolved (proposed MW, seconded WR) to raise NO OBJECTION to the application.

 

•          12/01194          FP         Removal of existing storage sheds and erection of 2 holiday lets

                                                along with office/storage facilities and tennis court

                                                Land at Vose Farm, Tregony, Cornwall, TR2 5SH

 

The council considered the planning documents for some time.  The council noted that the buildings proposed (and materials to be used) are to be in keeping with the surroundings and neighbouring buildings.  Comments were also made that the new buildings are likely to be more aesthetically pleasing than the current agricultural purpose buildings on the site.  However, the parish council was concerned that this site has already been significantly developed and trusts that the planning officer will thoroughly consider the impact further development will have on the site, neighbours and services.  It was the view of the councillors present that if this application is approved it should mark the end of development on this site.  After careful deliberation it was resolved (proposed MW, seconded AB) to raise NO OBJECTION to the application with the comments detailed above to be noted.

 

 

•          12/01322          FP         Construction of 50kW photovoltaic array, associated equipment and boundary fence

                                                Trelewack Farm, St Ewe, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6EX

 

The council considered the planning documents and spent time examining the plans showing the scale of the installation.  Of particular concern was trying to establish from where the panels may visible and what impact they would have on those areas.  Councillors hope that the planning officer will make every possible effort to seek out properties and locations from which it may be possible to view the array of panels and give due consideration to what impact this will have on the residents and users.  On the basis that this research is properly undertaken and reflected in the planning officers final report and also on the basis that the array is relatively modest in size, the parish council resolved (proposed WR, seconded AB) to raise NO OBJECTION to the application.

 

122/11  Polmassick Flooding

Councillor Janet Lockyer was not in attendance and no other councillor had any updating information.  It was agreed to seek an update from Cllr Lockyer at the next meeting.

 

123/11  Cornwall Councillor Report

Councillor Robin Teverson was not in attendance.

 

124/11  Dumping and Fly-Tipping       

No update was available as to whether any of the rubbish previously reported has been removed or not.  The general consensus was that this sort of incident is on the increase and there was some discussion about why that might be.  There seems to be increased difficulty in using approved recycling and refuse facilities but Cllr Dickinson indicated it is possible to apply for a license even if you have a trailer or commercial vehicle.  It was agreed that efforts be made to inform the public about this activity and anyone with evidential information about fly-tipping incidents should inform the Phil Browning the Enviro Crime Enforcement Officer at Cornwall Council with as many details as possible.  Householder should also take care when employing contractors to do work which involves the removal of waste materials that these are being disposed of responsibly.

 

125/11  Highways

•          Cabling changes in St Ewe village

Western Power Distribution are undertaking improvement works of the electricity network in St Ewe.  The intention is that cabling will be underground through the narrow part of the village from the church gate towards Polmassick.  Whilst this work is undertaken there will be a partial road closure but access will be maintained for residents and emergency vehicles.  The proposed timescale for the scheme is four weeks and will commence on Tuesday 01.05.2012.  The council noted the information and it was agreed that a copy of the letter from WPD should be sent to Tower & Spire for publication.

 

•          Temporary Road Closure Notice

The council noted that Tregoney Hill in Mevagissey will be closed between the junctions of Fore Street and Lamorak Close from 16-20.03.2012 (0930 to 1630 hours) for surfacing works.

 

•          Fingerposts

Cllr John Dickinson reported that plans are being put in place to undertake work on two further signs and volunteers are coming forward to assist.

 

•          Potholes

There are ongoing concerns in this area.  It was agreed that the clerk will write to highways highlighting the road between Beacon Cross and the School House which, it was reported, is almost unusable as well as expressing concern about the quality and longevity of pothole repairs when they are done.

 

•          No other matters were reported.

 

126/11  Footpaths

•          LMP Agreement and funding rates

The clerk read to the council recent correspondence from CC regarding the LMP agreement.  In short, CC are proposing the grant for 2012/2013 is calculated at £100 per km/cut for gold status paths plus £5 per cut against isolated furniture (stiles and gates) on those paths.  Reimbursement for silver paths will be based on £40 per km.  This scheme will bring St Ewe in line with other parishes and it appears there is little alternative but to agree with these recommendations made by the countryside officer.  The grant received for 2011/2012 was £379.14 and the new proposed grant will amount to approximately £374.20 so there is no real significant difference.  However, the council highlighted that it is again a matter of concern that these arrangements are being finalised only now in March when our budgeting process had to be completed in November last year and also our contractors are already approved, appointed and due to commence work from 01.04.2012.  Working from these figures there will be a shortfall between what CC pay us and what we have to pay our contractor of £146.00 and this must be made up from money obtained from parishioners through the precept on council tax.  Councillors considered this information and agreed that St Ewe Parish Council remains committed to the LMP agreement and the maintenance of the footpath network.  The need to keep a close eye on future changes was also felt necessary and it was agreed that the clerk should make early enquiries (before the November budgeting meeting) about the likely level of grant for 2013/2014.

 

 

•          No other matters were reported. 

 

127/11  Code of Conduct

The council noted updating information from Cornwall Council regarding the Code of Conduct proposals and will await further updates.

 

128/11  Notice Boards

The clerk advised the council that work has commenced on the new notice board for Polmassick and this should be installed in the next few weeks.  Once this has happened the refurbishment work will start on the other notice boards.  It was agreed that this matter be included on the next agenda when hopefully all of the work will have been completed.

 

129/11  Grant Applications

•          Shelter

•          Citizen’s Advice Bureau

•          Merlin Centre

•          Cruse Bereavement Care

The parish council agreed not to award grants to any of the above organisations at this time.

 

•          Water Leak – St Ewe Village Hall

It has been necessary to undertake essential repair works after a water leak was discovered under the village hall car park.  The cost of professional help to do these repairs amounted to £527.60 and a copy invoice has been provided as evidence.  Cllr Will Richards (in his capacity as Treasurer to the Village Hall) was able to give some further details and also urged the council to support the application.

 

•          Village Celebrations – St Ewe Village Hall

There was a debate about this grant request, councillors having discussed the matter earlier in the meeting whilst Sue Hawken was available to provide further information.  The clerk was able to advise the council that under s145 Local Government Act 1972 a parish council may contribute towards the expenses of the provision of an entertainment of any nature or of facilities for dancing and any advertising necessary of such entertainment.  That being the case it is clearly within the power of the parish council under this single section to make a grant towards the costs of the celebration day.  The clerk was able to provide information about the current state of parish finances and whilst the grant making budget is quite small there are a number of other areas where savings have been made and it would be possible to reallocate these funds.  In particular the parish council received the grant for the new notice board which has effectively halved the anticipated costs.  Cllr Will Richards (in his capacity as Treasurer to the Village Hall) advised the council that this matter is in effect being managed by a sub-committee and any funds donated for the village celebrations will be ring fenced for that purpose.  The next meeting of that sub-committee is on 20.03.2012 and a St Ewe Parish Council representative is welcome to attend.  The minutes of a previous meeting will be supplied to the parish council as soon as possible.  He supported the application for a contribution as they felt the proposed events were well supported with the community.

 

Cllr Will Richards left the meeting

 

Cllr John Dickinson (elected Vice Chairman) temporarily took chair of the meeting

 

•          Water Leak – St Ewe Village Hall

The remaining councillors considered the matter further and agreed it was an appropriate use of funds to assist the Village Hall with this matter and agreed that the parish council would meet approximately 50% of the costs incurred.  It was resolved (proposed AB, seconded TJ) to award a grant in the sum of £277.60.

 

•          Village Celebrations – St Ewe Village Hall

The remaining councillors considered the matter further.  The grant being requested is substantial and councillors needed to be confident that it is wise and prudent use of parish funds.  Cllr Sam Roberts who sits as the parish council representative on the Village Hall Committee was able to give some further information about matters still to be resolved in relation to the day’s celebrations.  There was a lengthy debate about what level of grant would be appropriate and what funds the parish council has available to utilise.  The clerk was able to clarify that from a budget point of view it would be possible to make a grant of anything up to £1000 without adversely impacting on the council’s financial position.  Eventually it was agreed that there was just not sufficient detailed information for the council to make a clear and final resolution at this time.  It was agreed that the clerk should write to committee organising the celebrations in as clear a terms as possible setting out the concerns of the parish council and detailing what additional information is needed for the grant request to be successful.  The parish council wishes to express that it is committed to the award of a grant in principle and that it hopes this would be in the region of £500-£1000 subject to the issues being resolved and the programme of events clarified.

 

Cllr Will Richards re-joined the meeting and re-took the chair

 

 

•          Release of St Ewe 2000 Portraits for village celebration display – St Ewe Village Hall

A request has been made by Val Waddell for the St Ewe 2000 Portraits so that he can use some of the photographs as part of a display to be put on in the village hall.  The clerk was able to advise the council that she had been in touch with the artist and he is content for the portraits to be used in this way.  He has detailed some conditions in an email and these must be adhered to.  The clerk has prepared a schedule and there are 58 photographs in total, the cost of replacement per photograph is £25.00.  Councillors agreed that this was a good use for the portraits and that it would be nice to see them on display again.  It was resolved (proposed JD, seconded AB) that the portraits be released to St Ewe Village Hall committee upon the following undertakings: (1) Due note will be given to the contents of the attached email from Colin Robins and the conditions imposed by the artist will be observed; (2) The items will be returned in their original condition in the boxes provided within one week of the conclusion of the display; and (3) the cost of any replacement because of loss or damage incurred whilst the items are in the possession of the Village Hall committee will be met by the Village Hall. 

 

Cllr Will Richards (in his capacity as Treasurer of the Village Hall) took possession of the photographs and signed the schedule and undertakings.

 

130/11  Financial matters

•          Approve payments

Payment of any grants detailed above and outstanding invoices received up to the time of the meeting were approved (proposed WR, seconded MW) as detailed below:

Rose Hardisty   34.18

10.00

11.20    Salary - 1 wks @ 4 hrs/wk = 4 hrs

Working from home allowance – March

28 miles at 40p/mile

Jose Ringrose   405.00  Temporary clerk cover for 10 weeks

St Ewe Village Hall                                           277.60  Grant towards cost of repair of water leak

 

•          Notice of s137 spending limit

The council noted that the s137 limit for the coming financial year is £6.80 per elector.  The amount for the current year 2011/2012 is £6.44. 

 

•          Correspondence re: precept capping

The council noted correspondence received from Cornwall Council stating that town and parish councils will not be subject to capping or referendums on their council tax precepts for 2012/2013.  The Local Government minister did however state that capping may apply to town and parish councils in future years.

 

•          Preliminary consideration of expected year-end figures

The council noted the state of the parish council finances and as no further expenditure is likely before the end of the month this is to be the position of the council at financial year-end.  Councillors were satisfied that largely matters had remained within budget.  The clerk pointed out that the community chest grant was an unexpected income and also that we have yet to pay any invoices for the notice board work.  It was agreed that an additional £500 be removed to reserves to reflect the anticipated notice board costs and £1000 for a possible jubilee grant.

 

•          Bi-monthly financial update

The council noted the bi-monthly update and budget review without comment issues have been largely covered in the above item.

 

134/11  Audit Matters

•          Appointment of internal auditor

It was agreed that the clerk should approach Brian Smelt to ask if he would like to undertake the St Ewe internal audit this year.  If he is unable to do this it was agreed that the clerk should liaise with the chairman about a suitable alternative.  It was resolved (proposed WR, seconded SR) to offer £50 by way of fee to any internal auditor appointed.

 

•          Arrangements for external audit

The clerk has spoken to staff at the Audit Commission and they have confirmed that external audit arrangements remain unchanged this year, the threatened abolition of the Audit Commission having not taken place.  The clerk awaits the necessary forms and documents from the Audit Commission before being able to commence the year-end processes.  The notification will contain detailed timescales and the clerk warned it may be necessary to arrange an additional meeting if the deadlines do not fit with usual meeting schedule.  The council noted all the above.

 

135/11  St Austell Community Network

The next meeting is scheduled to take place on Monday 21.05.2012 at 7.00pm in the Council Chamber of the Penwinnick Road offices.  There was some discussion about whether St Ewe wished to send a representative.  It was agreed to wait until the agenda has been published and come to a decision at the parish council meeting scheduled for 14.05.2012.

 

136/11  Consultations

•          Public Convenience Review

The council noted receipt but did not comment on the above consultation.

 

137/11  New information posted on Notice Boards

•          Minutes of 14.11.2012

(and at www.cornwall.gov.uk/steweparish and http://roseland-online.co.uk/roseland-cornwall-community/parishes/stewe.html)

•          Shared Ownership Properties at Badgers Watch, Trewoon

•          Cornwall Council’s talking rubbish – new arrangements for refuse and recycling

The council noted the information posted on the notice boards.

 

138/11  Schedule of future meeting dates

The clerk proposed the following schedule: 14.05.2012 (already booked), 09.07.2012, 10.09.2012, 12.11.2012, 14.01.2013, 11.03.2013 and 13.05.2013.  It was agreed that the clerk should write to the village hall seeking to book these dates and, subject to availability of the room, these dates were agreed.  Should the room not be available on any of the suggested dates then the matter should be reviewed at the May meeting.         

 

Following on from the discussion of the village celebration grant, it likely there will also be an additional meeting in April 2012.

 

139/11  Any other business   

 

            No other business was raised.

 

140/11  Clerk’s report

The clerk presented a short report listing the magazines and circulars received since the last meeting, which are available for councillors to view should they so wish. 

 

141/11  Date of next meeting

The next meeting will be Monday 02 or Monday 16 April 2012 to deal with any urgent matters, financial matters and in particular the village celebration grant.  The next pre-planned meeting is scheduled for Monday 14 May 2012 at 7.00pm which is the Annual Parish Community meeting at 7.00pm, followed by the Parish Council AGM and after that the usual parish business will be dealt with.  Dates of planning meetings are subject to receipt of planning applications and are arranged as and when required.  The date of the next employment committee meeting will be arranged as necessary.

 

Meeting closed at 9.45pm

 

 

Notice - Parish Accounts year end 31.03.2012

Further to the formal notice placed on parish notice boards on 10.04.2012 the clerk would like to remind parishioners that they have a right to inspect St Ewe Parish Council’s accounts including the annual return made to the Audit Commission and all books, contracts, bills, vouchers, receipts, etc.  Anyone wishing to exercise their right to carry out such an inspection should contact the clerk to make suitable arrangements.

 

Please contact Rose Hardisty on 01726 74101

steweparish@tiscali.co.uk

Rose Hardisty, Clerk to St Ewe Parish Council

Menagwins Cottage, Pentewan Road, ST AUSTELL, Cornwall, PL26 7AN

  

Councillor Vacancy

 

Do you have the time and energy needed for this fulfilling and valuable role within the community?

St Ewe Parish needs to fill the current vacancy on the Council.  If you think you might be interested please contact the clerk or speak to one of the existing councillors who can tell you more about this exciting opportunity and the work of the Parish Council.

 

Rose Hardisty, Clerk to St Ewe Parish Council

Menagwins Cottage, Pentewan Road, ST AUSTELL, Cornwall, PL26 7AN

01726 74101  -  steweparish@tiscali.co.uk

 

______________________________________________________________

M I N U T E S

Parish Council Meeting

St Ewe Village Hall

Monday 30 January 2012

7.00pm – 8.05pm

113/11  Declarations of interests.    None

Public Participation - Mr Val Waddell Chairman of St Ewe Village Hall spoke to the council about the opportunity for the community to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.  He proposed to have a special day (02.06.2012) set aside for as widespread community activities as possible.  An initial committee has been set up and a meeting to discuss activities and funding etc has been arranged.  He enquired as to whether the Parish Council would be able to assist financially. 

It was agreed that this matter would be discussed at the next full council meeting on 12.03.2012.

114/11  Planning Matters

·       11/10501   FP    Proposed grain storage & livestock building

                             Corran Farm, StEwe, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 6ER                                   

The council considered the planning documents and resolved (proposed MW, seconded JL) to raise no objection to the application.

·       11/10469   FP    Demolish existing Nissan Hut and replace with detached garage

                        Rose Villa Barn, Little Polgooth, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 7DD                             

The council considered the planning documents and resolved (proposed SR, seconded RC) to raise no objection to the application.

·       11/09524   FP    Installation of wind turbine and associated works

                                        Levalsa Meor Farm, Levalsa Meor, St Austell, Cornwall                                         

The council considered the planning documents for this application in a neighbouring parish.  The council felt the matter may well be contentious and felt that detailed comments were best left to being made by the parish in which the application is sited.  Accordingly the council resolved (proposed JL, seconded EH) to make no comment on the application.

·       12/00405   FP    Proposed domestic single garage

                            The Old Smithy, Trelean Vean Farm, St.Ewe                        

The council considered the planning documents and felt that there were several issues of concern.  The council felt that these should be set out in a letter to the planning officer and resolved (proposed SR, seconded JD) to object to the application.

115/11  Dumping of Asbestos Sheeting

Cllr Wheeley reported that more building materials (plasterboard, etc) had been dumped at the site where the asbestos sheeting still lay in Drunken Bridge Lane.  Cllr Dickinson reported carpet had been dumped in a field gateway between Tregain and Bosue.  The clerk reported a number of black sacks had been dumped in the overgrown lane 100 yards along the road from Five Turnings on the St Ewe road.  It was agreed that the clerk should report these matters and that the issue of illegal dumping be listed on the next agenda.

116/11  Any other business   No other business was raised. 

117/11  Date of next meeting The date of the next full council meeting is Monday 12 March 2012 at 7.00pm.  Dates of planning meetings are subject to receipt of planning applications and are arranged as and when required. 

The meeting closed at 8.05pm

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