Further government intervention “will not solve the issues facing Liverpool Council ” according to the city’s Mayor.
Joanne Anderson has expressed her “deep concerns” at recommendations made in the second commissioners’ report into the local authority, which was published today. It was confirmed that the government is to take over all financial, governance and recruitment powers from the troubled council as a result of the findings of the Whitehall appointed officials.
Greg Clark MP, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has also announced the formation of a strategic advisory panel that he hopes will develop a long-term plan to guide Liverpool Council out of the current government intervention and help shape the future of the city.
READ MORE: People of Liverpool must lead city not 'remote' government
Mayor Anderson questioned the wisdom of further oversight from Westminster in a statement. She said: “Let me thank the commissioners for their work in helping to drive improvements to address the issues raised in the Max Caller report. As Mayor, I have been clear that we will work with the commissioners to steady the ship and put in place measures that will prevent any further scandals and public controversy.
“However, I am concerned about some of their recommendations in their report. Specifically, their call for further intervention which I fear dilutes the core purpose of the intervention.
Mayor Anderson, said while she agreed with commissioners about major gaps in the workforce capacity and capability, she said this was not unique to Liverpool. She added: “There is a shortage of qualified, senior staff across local government, which is making us dependent on interim staff that cost more in the short-term. Many other councils are in exactly the same position, as this is the national picture.
“Under government intervention, our council faces an additional barrier in recruiting talent as people assume that they will have no freedom to manage or work creatively here. Further government intervention will not solve the issues facing Liverpool City Council – these are common issues being experienced right across local government.”
The former Princes Park councillor said that by next March, the commissioners’ intervention will have cost Liverpool Council £6.7m, “which is money that could be better spent on transforming our services.” She said discussions had been held with Mr Clark to raise concerns on the intervention and to find a resolution.
Mayor Anderson said while the report was “challenging reading” it acknowledged the hard work taking place at the Cunard Building “as we go through a period of significant change.” She added: “I expect to see marked improvements by the commissioners’ next report, otherwise we will have to accept the model is simply counterproductive to what we are striving for.
“However, I do feel hopeful. The commissioners’ report was written nearly three months ago, and we have already seen improvements in many areas since then, such as the appointment of a new interim chief executive who has an impressive track record of delivery, measurable improvements in contracting and procurement, debt collection, property assessment management services and tackling some long-standing issues in regeneration.
“Like any organisation, we need stability and patience whilst we embed the positive changes that have already been made. We care immensely for our city and its people, and we are determined to get this right.”
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