by The Local Democracy Reporter, ldreporter@post.com
Oakham Town Council (OTC) is moving toward a formal resolution regarding the future of its Deputy Clerk. In a recent council session, members addressed formal correspondence from a solicitor representing the Deputy Clerk, requesting that the council enter into a settlement agreement as dictated by their employment contract.
The move marks a significant shift in the council’s internal administrative structure, signaling a structured departure or resolution of terms for the high-level role.
In response to the legal request, the council voted to delegate the negotiation process to the Staffing Committee. This committee has been tasked with hammering out the specifics of a settlement that satisfies both the council’s interests and the requirements of the Deputy Clerk’s contract.
However, the committee will not have the final say; any negotiated agreement must be brought back before the Full Council for ultimate approval before it can be finalised.
Recognising the weight of these negotiations, the council also moved to increase the number of representatives on the Staffing Committee to ensure broader oversight. The following members were officially appointed to the committee to oversee the proceedings: Cllr Nicols, Cllr Harris and Cllr Brookes.
The motion to expand the committee and delegate the settlement talks was proposed by Cllr Clark and seconded by Cllr Ainsley. The motion was carried successfully.
In a local government context, a settlement agreement is a legally binding contract used to resolve disputes or end an employment relationship on agreed-upon terms. Once signed, such agreements typically prevent the employee from making any further legal claims against the council, providing a "clean break" for both parties.
"Council agrees to delegate out to Staffing Committee to negotiate a settlement with the Deputy Clerk that is approved by both parties concerned and bring to full council." Excerpt from Council Minutes 04/26-15.
The newly bolstered Staffing Committee is expected to begin discussions with the Deputy Clerk’s legal counsel immediately. While the specific details of the "terms and conditions" mentioned in the contract remain confidential, the council's priority appears to be reaching a swift, legally sound conclusion to avoid prolonged administrative disruption
Minute Published by Oakham Town Council
04/26-15 STAFFING ARRANGEMENTS: Oakham Town Council has received correspondence from the Deputy Clerks appointed solicitor requesting that the Council consider a settlement agreement as per the terms and conditions of the contract with the Council.
It was proposed that Council agrees to delegate out to Staffing Committee to negotiate a settlement with the Deputy Clerk that is approved by both parties concerned and bring to full council
2. Staffing Committee numbers should be increased The following councillors were appointed to the Staffing Committee Cllrs Nicols, Harris and Brookes.
Proposed by Cllr Clark and seconded by Cllr Ainsley. Carried.
