What is Scrutiny?

Most Council decisions are taken by a group of nine councillors known as Executive Members (similar to the Cabinet in central government). 

Councillors who are not members of the Executive (non-executive members) take part in scrutiny and act as watchdogs by examining the decisions, policies and performance of the council.  They can make recommendations to the Executive where they think things could be improved for the citizens of York.

How does it work in York?

Scrutiny at York has already investigated things as diverse as the response to the 2000 floods, provision for young people leaving care in York, safety on home-to-school transport and making the Council's decision-making process more inclusive.

The Scrutiny Management Committee co-ordinates the work of the formal scrutiny committees and ad-hoc sub-committees which are set up to examine particular issues.

At present there are two permanent scrutiny committees, the Education Scrutiny Committee and the Health Scrutiny Committee.

Scrutiny Management Committee are currently considering forming an ad-hoc sub-committee to examine what can be learned from the decision making process which led to the sale of the Barbican site.  They expect to give this further consideration at their meeting in September 2007.

How to get involved

To make suggestions about subjects which may be suitable for consideration by Scrutiny please contact your Ward Councillor.  

See Council Committees for details of scrutiny meetings which are open to the public.