The council meeting focused on various administrative and operational matters, including the appointment of a new internal auditor, updates on health and safety policies, and the approval of the Treasury Management Strategy. The meeting also addressed issues related to the community governance review and the handling of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).

1. Appointment of a New Internal Auditor: The council approved the appointment of BDO LLP as the new internal auditor following a competitive bidding process. The decision was based on a combination of price and perceived quality. This decision ensures continued oversight and auditing of council activities, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability.

2. Health and Safety Policy Update: The council reviewed and approved updates to the Health and Safety Policy, which included the removal of COVID-19 specific regulations. The policy emphasizes the council's commitment to safety and compliance with national standards. The discussion highlighted the importance of keeping the policy current and responsive to changes in legal and operational environments.

3. Treasury Management Strategy Approval: The council approved the Treasury Management Strategy for the upcoming year, which guides the management of the council's investments and borrowing. The strategy includes considerations for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. This approval is crucial for ensuring the council's financial operations are conducted securely and responsibly, aligning with broader social and environmental goals.

4. Discussion on Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): There was a significant discussion about the use of NDAs, with concerns raised about their transparency and the democratic oversight involved in their approval. The discussion underscored the need for careful consideration of NDAs to balance confidentiality with transparency and accountability.

Interesting Event: The meeting briefly went into a private session to discuss matters related to the community governance review, indicating sensitive topics were addressed concerning individual performance or competencies. This move highlighted the council's cautious approach to personnel and legal matters.