The functions relating to SNN are executive functions.
This means that different rules apply depending on whether the decision is made under executive arrangements or under the committee system:
Executive functions under executive arrangements
If the SNN decision is taken by the executive or a committee of the executive:
- The meeting must be in public unless confidential or exempt information would be disclosed.
- The agenda and connected reports must be made available for inspection at the authority offices and on the authority website unless the meeting will be held in private.
- Additional rules apply in respect of prior publication of information before the decision is made where the decision would incur/make significant expenditure/savings relative to its budget for SNN or would be significant in its effects on communities living or working in an area comprising two or more wards/electoral divisions.
- As soon as practicable after the meeting a written statement detailing the decision, reasons, alternatives considered and rejected, conflicts of interest declared, and any dispensations granted.
- Written records of decisions and reports that must be available for public inspection must be retained for six years and background papers (dependent on local authorities' policies), for four years.
If the SNN decision is made by an individual elected member (including a directly elected Mayor):
- As soon as practicable after the member has made the decision a written statement detailing the decision, reasons, alternatives considered and rejected, conflicts of interest declared, and any dispensations granted must be produced.
- Written records of decisions and reports that must be available for public inspection must be retained for six years and background papers (dependent on local authorities' policies), for four years.
If the SNN decision is taken by an officer with delegated authority from the executive:
- The Officer must produce a written record of the decision containing the date, the decision taken, reasons, details of any alternatives considered and rejected and whether any elected member has declared a conflict of interest.
- Written records and background papers (dependent on local authorities' policies) must be made available for inspection by the public as soon as reasonably practicable.
- Written records of decisions and reports that must be available for public inspection must be retained for six years and background papers (dependent on local authorities' policies) for four years