Those of us who campaigned vigorously against a directly elected mayor for Brighton and Hove are pleased to see the improved committee system taking shape.
There is clearly more openness, democracy and public involvement than before. Equally, it knocks on the head the scare stories that it would cost more or produce a multitude of committees.
I am particulary pleased to see a children's committee. However, there are some anomalies. Housing is split. Policy for housing lies with Culture and Regeneration, whereas management, repairs and allocations are part of City Services.
There is also a gap. In the interest of decentralisation and local decision-making, many of us urged the setting-up of Neighbourhood Forums. We have yet to see any move in that direction.
The scheme is a curate's egg with some good bits and some not so good. It is a small step forward and I am glad just as Brighton and Hove led the way in rejecting a boss-mayor so have Harlow and Plymouth in recent referendums.
-Coun Francis Tonks, Wykeham Terrace, Brighton
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