1.The purpose of this Technical Note is to update Members in relation to a proposed special meeting of the Council on 11th November 2021.
2. Members will be aware that the Council’s audited Annual Accounts and Annual Audit Report are submitted to a meeting of Council or Audit & Risk Management Committee for consideration. Thereafter, the Annual Accounts are signed by the Chief Executive, Chief Finance Officer and Joint Leaders of the Council. The timing of this is dependent on colleagues in Audit Scotland. Members will also be aware that the deadline for this to be completed is currently extended in recognition of the impact of the pandemic and the complex financial and accounting treatments arising from the response to COVID-19.
3. In light of the above, it has been agreed with Audit Scotland and the Provost that the audited Annual Accounts and Annual Audit Report be submitted to a special meeting of the Council to be held on 11th November 2021. This is in recognition of the challenges and complexity of 2020/21 and will provide all Members with an opportunity to consider and comment on both Reports. As with normal practice, officers from Audit Scotland will be in attendance to present the Reports and there will be an opportunity for Members to ask questions or seek further information during the meeting.
4. Members will be aware that the Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee is scheduled to meet at 5pm on 11th November, therefore following consultation with the Provost, it has been agreed that the special meeting of the Council will commence 5 minutes after conclusion of the Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee or at 6pm, whichever is the later. Meeting invites will be issued shortly.