Question

Can a Parish Council retrospectively vote for an action that has already been carried out?

Answer 1

Erm, probably not. What was the action?

Answer 2

If it is an action carried out by the PC or on behalf of the PC, it should have been resolved,  or cited in a policy, procedure or Standing Orders - otherwise it could be regarded as illegal. They can only vote to ratify or endorse it, but not to authorise it retrospectively.

Answer 3

Some councils, in their standing orders and / or financial regulations authorise the Clerk to spend on an emergency or business critical basis ie, if a tree had fallen and the Clerk needed to get a tree surgeon to make it safe.  It would then be raised at the next council meeting but not for resolution, more for acknowledgment.