Issue - meetings

The committee will be asked to agree the proposed structure for the Haringey Payment Service.

The Committee considered plans for the restructuring of the Haringey Payments service which would occur subsequent to the closure of the Cashier’s service based at 247 High Road Wood Green. The closure was scheduled to take place by the 3^rd of June. Members of the Committee were therefore asked to agree the proposed structure for the Haringey payment service and note the subsequent reductions in posts, to come into effect from June 2011.

The Committee were advised that the number of permanent posts affected was seven and following the restructure this would be reduced to four.

 Concern was expressed by some Members on the waiting times at the Cashier’s service. This as explained to be as a result of recent issues experienced with the issuing of parking permits which had recently been fully resolved.  Members highlighted the need to communicate effectively to residents the change in the payment policy of the Council which was that a majority of payments would need to be made online.  It was essential that this was communicated to the public before the closure of the payments service to ensure that residents were able to understand how they could make payments in future. The Committee further recommended that online forms for payments were simple and user friendly with clear information on the documentation needed to obtain permits or licences.  There should also be information provided on where payments can be made when there is not access to information technology.  The Committee were assured that a publicity campaign on the new payments online service was underway with communication of the online payment service planned in Haringey People.

RESOLVED

1. That subject to formal consultation, the proposed new structure for the Haringey payments service be agreed.

2. That delegated authority be provided to the Director of Corporate Resources, in consultation with the Chair of the Committee to make any amendments that may be agreed following the formal consultation process.

3. That the timetable for implementation be noted.