Commissioners appointed to aid Liverpool City Council
Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick has appointed independent commissioners to oversee improvements at Liverpool City Council.
In March an independent report uncovered multiple serious failures by Liverpool City Council in adhering to its Best Value Duty. This type of government intervention underlines the seriousness of the failings at Liverpool City Council and the need ensure that the council could deliver vital services for anyone of Liverpool.
The independent report uncovered a deeply concerning picture of mismanagement, which included serious failures of governance, deficiencies in scrutiny and regard of public funds, and a culture of intimidation in the council. The brand new team of independent experts to support the council in implementing rapid and far-reaching changes.
The commissioners may have the power to intervene on day-to-day decisions, if they're dissatisfied with the council’s improvement. The commissioners, led by Mike Cunningham QPM these types of maintain place until June 2024, will drive forward the council’s plan of action, updating the Secretary of State every six months on progress.
Jenrick has also confirmed his intention that Liverpool City Council will move to all-out elections from 2023 onwards, providing stability to Liverpool’s local democracy during this period of significant change.
Jenrick said: “The decision to intervene is not one I have taken lightly, and it reflects the seriousness of the failings at Liverpool City Council. The folks of Liverpool happen to be let down badly. They need to know that public funds are being managed properly. A significant change is required to give this excellent city the civic leadership it deserves and also the credibility and respect necessary to attract investment. I'm thankful to Tony Reeves for setting the council on the road to improvement. I am hopeful that, working alongside these commissioners, the council, led by Mayor Joanne Anderson, can continue to implement rapid and far-reaching changes.”
