Council’s new way of working

A NEW era for Oldham got under way last night as dreams of becoming a co-operative council became a reality.

The council’s Cabinet decided to adopt two landmark policies to set the wheels in motion in what is being dubbed the “repositioning of Oldham”.

Two reports were moved meaning the first foundations of the co-operative council will now be put in place.

An ethical framework will be adopted which will be the future blueprint of doing business with the council.

Cabinet members also gave the green light to the creation of a co-operative charter, which will enable organisations, individuals and businesses to sign up and work together to benefit the community.

Council leader Jim McMahon said: “We face severe financial challenges but we’re not going to just sit still. We can’t continue to do business the way we always have done, otherwise services will suffer.

Values
“This is about improving the reputation of the council and ultimately improving services people see in their neighbourhoods.”

The move came on a historic day for the international movement, as the United Nations hosted the global launch of the International Year of Co-operatives (IYC) for 2012 in New York.

A detailed transition plan will now be prepared around the future organisational framework.

By the end of 2012 the council plans to have clarity on how decision-making will be devolved, costs reduced and satisfaction in Oldham improved.

Councillor Barbara Dawson said it was an “important day for Oldham” in setting out a clear statement of co-operative values.

Six new district town halls will be set up with the function of giving locals greater influence and empowerment to shape services.