Agenda item - Brighton & Hove Music and Arts Service Alternative Governance

Report of the Executive Director for Families, Children & Learning (copy attached).

RESOLVED – That the Committee:

1)     Authorise the next steps in the procurement process following the publication of the PIN on 23 August 2016 as set out in 3.10.

2)     Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Families, Children and Learning to award a contract for a term of up to 25 years, incorporating break provision exercisable at each 5 year interval to deliver the management of BHMA.

52.1       The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director for Families, Children & Learning in relation to Brighton & Hove Music and Arts Service Alternative Governance. The purpose of the report was to inform Members of the possible outcomes following the publication of a Prior Information Notice (PIN) in regards to Brighton & Hove Music and Arts Service (BHMA) and approve the subsequent action to be taken as set out in the report.

52.2       Councillor A. Norman noted that the Music & Arts Service had consistently delivered excellent opportunities for the city for a number of years, and a great deal of fundraising had taken place to protect the provision offered. Councillor A. Norman noted there were a number of legal and financial considerations to be worked through; however she supported the continuation of the service, but noted the Council needed to remain involved and help to ensure a long-term stable funding solution could be found.

52.3       Councillor Sykes noted that he supported the proposals in the report, and highlighted that the service was award winning. In response to queries it was explained that governance model sought to develop the service and strengthen the interaction with other areas of arts and culture in the city. Assurance was provided that fees and charges were not likely to significantly increase, and this would be monitored.

52.4       The Chair then put the recommendations to the vote.

52.5       RESOLVED – That the Committee:

1)     Authorise the next steps in the procurement process following the publication of the PIN on 23 August 2016 as set out in 3.10.

2)     Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Families, Children and Learning to award a contract for a term of up to 25 years, incorporating break provision exercisable at each 5 year interval to deliver the management of BHMA.