The County Council convened on Thursday, 18 December 2025, to discuss a range of significant matters including the implementation of the Armed Forces Covenant, proposed changes to committee structures, and the annual report on corporate parenting. The meeting also addressed the critical issue of water supply failures in Tunbridge Wells and reviewed the council's strategic direction.

Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report

The council was scheduled to consider the 2025 Annual Report on the Implementation of the Armed Forces Covenant in Kent. This report details Kent County Council's (KCC) work to support the armed forces community within the county. It highlights key achievements during 2025, including the ongoing work of the Kent & Medway Civilian-Military Partnership Board (KMCMPB), which aims to encourage support for the armed forces community and recognise their sacrifices. The report also outlines KCC's commitment to the MoD Employer Recognition Scheme, with several local organisations achieving Gold Awards. Welfare support for service personnel and ex-service personnel, including financial hardship programmes, was also a key focus. Looking ahead to 2026, the report details plans for continued publicity of military events, analysis of a member and officer survey to better understand armed forces connections within KCC, and ongoing awareness training. The recommendation was for members to note the ongoing work and endorse future priorities, including promoting KCC's status as a lead MoD Employers Recognition Gold Award holder.

Committees Review

A report was presented outlining proposed changes to the council's committee arrangements, aiming for a more efficient approach to formal meetings. These proposals, pending recommendations from the Selection and Member Services Committee, included merging the Planning Applications Committee with the Regulation Committee, and the Selection and Member Services Committee with the Electoral and Boundary Review Committee. The Member Development Sub-Committee was also proposed for deletion. Changes to Cabinet Committees were also noted, with the Environment and Transport Cabinet Committee set to absorb functions from the Growth, Economic Development and Communities Cabinet Committee. The report advised that any decisions on committee numbers would impact proportionality calculations, and definitive recommendations would follow the Selection and Member Services Committee meeting.

Corporate Parenting Annual Report

The council was to consider the Corporate Parenting Annual Report for 2025, which details the work of KCC's services and the support provided to children in care and care-experienced adults. The report highlights the responsibilities of KCC staff, elected members, and partner agencies. Key services covered include Kent Fostering, Adoption Partnership Southeast, the Participation and Engagement Team, and the 18+ Care Leavers Service. The report noted that while most performance indicators were within acceptable ratings, the increased number of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children had impacted performance in areas such as initial health assessments and placements within 20 miles of a child's home. The report also detailed the work of the Virtual School Kent's Participation and Engagement Team, the 18+ Care Leavers Service, Kent Fostering Service, the Kinship Service, Adoption Partnership Southeast, and the Total Placement Service. The recommendation was for the County Council to note the report and their responsibilities as corporate parents.

Appointment of Political Assistants

A report was presented regarding the appointment of Political Assistants, as provided for under Section 9 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. This legislation allows for a maximum of three persons to provide assistance to members of Political Groups, with pay subject to a statutory ceiling. The report outlined the role of Political Assistants, which includes undertaking research and providing support to members of Political Groups. It also detailed other considerations, such as the fact that delegated powers cannot be conferred on Political Assistants. The recommendation was to approve the establishment of these posts for qualifying Political Groups and delegate authority for consequential amendments to the Constitution and the appointment process.

Marine and Coastal Act Delegations Update

The council was to consider an update on delegations related to the Marine and Coastal Act 2009. This Act grants KCC a range of powers, including the ability to enter into agreements for works related to coastal access, establish or maintain the England Coast Path, and erect or remove notices. For clarity and to ensure a clear framework of delegations, it was proposed to add a specific delegation for these functions to the Corporate Director of Growth, Environment and Transport. The recommendation was to agree to update the Appendix to the Constitution to reflect these delegations.

Appointment of Standards Independent Persons

The council was asked to consider the appointment of Independent Persons for Standards, a requirement under the Localism Act 2011. The role involves advising KCC on allegations of breaches of the Member Code of Conduct. Mr Michael George, who had held the position since 2012, was stepping down. A recruitment exercise had been undertaken to find a replacement, and the report recommended the appointment of David Mercier and Michael Turner to four-year terms, subject to satisfactory background checks. The council was also asked to thank Mr George for his service.

Motion for Time Limited Debate: Failure of Water Supply in Tunbridge Wells

A motion submitted by the Liberal Democrat Group concerning the failure of water supply in Tunbridge Wells was scheduled for debate. The motion highlighted the significant disruption experienced by thousands of households and businesses, the risks to public health, and concerns about the resilience of the region's water system, referencing previous incidents. The motion proposed thanking KCC staff, expressing concern about South East Water's failures, and supporting formal investigations. It called for a Short-Focussed Inquiry by the Scrutiny Committee to identify lessons learned, prevent recurrence, and explore how KCC can best contribute to future relief efforts. The motion also requested that KCC officers draw the council's resolution to the attention of the relevant Minister.