The North Northamptonshire Council was scheduled to discuss and approve its constitution, a document outlining how the council operates, makes decisions, and ensures public participation. The constitution is divided into nine parts, each addressing different aspects of the council's functions and procedures.

Here's a summary of the key areas covered in the North Northamptonshire Constitution report pack:

• Introduction and Explanation: This section provides an overview of the council's structure, decision-making processes, and procedures. It emphasises the council's commitment to transparency and accessibility, inviting suggestions for improvement from the public.
• Public Participation and Rights: This section details how residents can engage with the council, including contacting councillors, attending meetings, submitting petitions, and participating in consultations. It also outlines the procedures for speaking at planning committee meetings and the council's petition scheme[^1]. [^1]: The petition scheme outlines the process for submitting petitions to the council, including requirements for signatures and content.
• Council Role and Meeting Procedures: This section defines the functions of the full council, including adopting the budget and policy framework. It also sets out the Meeting Procedure Rules, which govern how council meetings are conducted, including rules for debate, motions, and public participation.
• Budget and Policy Framework: This framework outlines the strategic objectives and financial parameters within which the council operates. It includes key strategies and policies related to crime reduction, development, licensing, housing, health, and climate change.
• Committee Structures and Terms of Reference: The report pack details the structure and responsibilities of various council committees, including the Planning Committee, Democracy and Standards Committee, Audit and Governance Committee, Health and Wellbeing Board, Employment Committee, and Licensing and Appeals Committee.
  • The Planning Committee considers planning applications not dealt with by officers using delegated powers.
  • The Democracy and Standards Committee oversees ethical standards for councillors and makes decisions related to elections and community governance.
  • The Audit and Governance Committee provides independent assurance on the council's governance, risk management, and financial reporting.
  • The Health and Wellbeing Board aims to improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities through integrated commissioning.
  • The Employment Committee deals with employment matters related to senior officers.
  • The Licensing and Appeals Committee handles licensing and appeals functions.
• Executive Functions and Procedures: This section outlines the role of the executive, its decision-making processes, and the procedures for accessing information related to executive decisions.
• Scrutiny Procedures: This section details the role and function of scrutiny committees in holding the executive to account and reviewing council decisions.
• Joint Arrangements: This section covers arrangements for services delivered jointly with West Northamptonshire Council and the Children's Trust for Northamptonshire.
• Councillor Conduct and Allowances: This section includes the Member Code of Conduct, Member Officer Protocol, and the Scheme of Members' Allowances.
• Officer Conduct and Delegation: This section outlines the Officer Code of Conduct, the Officer Employment Procedure Rules, and the Officer Scheme of Delegation.

The report pack also includes a glossary of terms used in the constitution.