On Tuesday the Regeneration Scrutiny and Performance Panel decided on its work programme for 2009/2010. Yesterday it was the turn of the Community  Scrutiny and Performance Panel to deliberate on what should be included in their work programme for 2009/2010.

As with all Scrutiny Panels there was no shortage of issues councillors wanted to take an in-depth look at. The final list included the following:-

• Libraries:The modernisation of Walsall’s Libraries continues. Some of the effects have been good, others not so good, particularly the smaller libraries which have suffered from Tory Budget cuts. The panel decided that it was time to take an in-depth look at the effects of the on-going modernisation programme.
• Alcohol in Walsall:Concern continues around the issue of alcohol related anti-social behaviour. The panel completed an important piece of work on anti-social behaviour earlier this year, the recommendations of which will go before the cabinet at its next meeting, The panel decided that more work was needed in the area of alcohol related anti-social behaviour. In particular it wanted to look at ways in which good practice can be spread throughout this aspect of leisure. The panel has set up a working group to talk with pub landlords about their issues and how best to promote a “healthy” pub culture.
• Bryntisillio:The council sends thousands of school children to the Bryntisillio facility in Wales each year. The lease is up for renewal and decisions about its future need to be made.
• Community Association Leases: In 2007/2008 new lease terms were developed for Community Associations. Progress on this issue stalled last year due to, yes you’ve guessed it, budget restrictions. The panel expressed its concern about this and decided to monitor progress this council year.

As was said yesterday, all of these issues touches each and every one of us in some way. If you have any views on any of the above, please let us know. This is your chance for an input into what affect your future.