Cumbria's Council meetings, where all 84 elected members meet about every eight weeks at County Offices, Kendal, have an important role under the new local governance arrangements.
Before, Council meetings were often seen as a 'rubber stamp' for decisions made in committee. Now, every councillor can question decisions made by the Cabinet. Council meetings are open to the public, and are now much more debating forums, with councillors vigorously discussing important local issues.
The Council itself has to approve all the key Council policies, including how much Council Tax should be raised to pay for County Council services.
Members of the public have an opportunity to get involved at Council meetings by:
- presenting a petition
- asking a question