SENIOR councillors agreed for the council’s £1.2millon insurance contract to be reviewed to ensure tax payers get the best value for money at last night’s (Wednesday 13 July) cabinet meeting.
The three-year contract is reaching the end of its term but has a two-year possible extension.
Cabinet members agreed to give permission to the lead officer for Finance (Section 151 officer) to see whether the extension terms were favourable – if not, a report will be brought back to cabinet following a tender process for ultimate Cabinet approval.
Portfolio Holder for Finance and Central Services, Cllr Shane Hebb, explained after the meeting his two priorities.
He said: “The two most important things in central services are really simple.
“Let’s start being more open, honest and transparent with residents – contracts of this value should absolutely be reported on and brought to cabinet meetings for agreement by the political leadership.
“Secondly, we should continually strive towards achieving the best value for the tax payer.”
He added: “I’m pleased we are first approaching our existing provider to check we have the best terms for the next two years – if this isn’t the case, I support starting a tender process to allow other providers to come forward.”
For more information on the council’s current contracts go to: thurrock.gov.uk/our-contracts
