At Wednesday’s Council meeting, Members considered a range of formal reports. I wanted to highlight a small number of items that I think will be of particular interest to colleagues.
Zero tolerance towards abuse and aggression
Council approved the Joint Zero Tolerance Statement on abuse and aggression towards council employees. As you will have seen from the separate newsflash earlier this week, this sets out clearly that verbal abuse, threats, intimidation or physical violence towards our staff are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
I welcome the strength of Member support on this issue. Many of us see first‑hand the impact that aggression and poor behaviour can have on colleagues, whether they are customer‑facing, working in communities, or dealing with particularly challenging circumstances. We talk a lot about professionalism and public service — but none of us should have to accept abuse as part of our job. It matters that the Council is clear, consistent, and united in standing behind staff when behaviour crosses the line.
Funding for Area Committees and Community Councils
Members agreed proposals to provide funding to support the work of Area Committees and Community Councils. The report recognised the importance of local democratic structures, community participation, and engagement, and provides a clearer framework for supporting activity at a local level. For many teams, particularly those supporting engagement, partnership working and committee business, this decision gives greater certainty as we plan work over the coming year.
Tobermory Campus – project update
Council considered an update on the Tobermory Campus project following the conclusion of the Judicial Review. The report confirmed that the Court found no failure in the Council’s decision‑making process and that there is no requirement to revisit previously agreed evidence or procedures. Members noted that the project team has been remobilised, consultants re‑engaged, and that work will now resume to progress the Outline Business Case for the preferred site at Tobermory South, to a revised timetable. Many colleagues have been involved in this work over a long period, so this was an important and welcome milestone.
Festival of Democracy
Council also supported proposals linked to the possible hosting of a Festival of Democracy on Bute. Argyll and Bute is being considered as a potential location for the festival, which aims to promote democratic engagement and participation. This creates an opportunity to showcase local democracy in practice and to encourage wider involvement from communities, members and partners, with further work now being taken forward by officers.
These reports are a reminder that behind every Council paper sits a great deal of officer time, judgement, and commitment — often over many months or years. I want to acknowledge that effort, and the professionalism with which colleagues continue to support the democratic process alongside the ongoing demands of service delivery.
Have a good weekend.
Pippa
Pippa Milne
Chief Executive
