Peterborough Council Faces Scrutiny Over £9,000 Payment for Short-Term Finance Chief
Peterborough Council's Spending on Interim Finance Chief Sparks Debate
Peterborough City Council is facing questions after shelling out a significant £9,000 to retain its former finance chief, Cecilie Booth, for just 47 days. Booth, who held the position of Executive Director of Corporate Services and Section 151 Officer (CFO) – essentially the council's chief financial officer – was engaged to provide support during a crucial hotel project.
Booth's appointment occurred in January 2022, and she was tasked with overseeing the council's finances. Her salary was reported to be around £175,000 annually, a substantial sum for a role that ultimately lasted until the end of March 2025. The decision to keep her on for a brief period following her official departure has raised eyebrows among local taxpayers and council critics.
The Hotel Project Connection
The council has stated that Booth's continued involvement was essential to ensure the smooth progression of a major hotel project. Details surrounding the project remain somewhat vague, but it's understood to be a significant investment for the council and a key part of its regeneration plans for the city. The council argued that Booth's expertise and understanding of the project's financial intricacies were vital during this transitional phase.
However, opposition councillors have questioned the necessity of such a high-earning role for such a short duration. They argue that the council could have explored alternative, more cost-effective solutions, such as utilising existing staff or engaging a different, shorter-term consultant.
Financial Accountability Under Fire
“This payment of £9,000 for just 47 days of work seems excessive and poorly justified,” said Councillor [Opposition Councillor's Name], a vocal critic of the council's financial management. “We need greater transparency and accountability regarding these decisions. Taxpayers deserve to know why such a significant sum was spent on a short-term engagement, especially with the council facing ongoing budget pressures.”
The council has defended its decision, insisting that Booth’s expertise was invaluable and that the £9,000 payment was a necessary expense to safeguard the hotel project and protect the council's financial interests. They maintain that the cost was proportionate to the risk involved and the potential consequences of not having experienced financial guidance during a critical period.
Public Reaction and Future Scrutiny
The news has sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with many residents expressing concern about the council's spending priorities. There are calls for a full review of the council’s procurement processes and a greater emphasis on value for money.
This incident is likely to fuel ongoing scrutiny of Peterborough City Council's financial management and its decision-making processes, particularly in relation to major projects. The council will need to provide a clear and convincing explanation to justify this expenditure and reassure taxpayers that their money is being spent wisely.
