Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: December 11, 2024

Purpose: To note the council’s funding outlook, financial position and risks, including any new investment decisions. To consider new Fees and Charges for the 2025/26 financial year.

Content: RESOLVED –   a)    THAT the continued challenging and uncertain funding and economic outlook for the Council as set out in Paragraphs 2.4 to 2.17 of the report, along with the Council’s latest financial forecast for the year in Paragraphs 2.18 to 2.21 be noted.   b)    THAT the financial position of the Housing Revenue Account along with proposals to improve its financial sustainability, as detailed in Paragraphs 2.45 to 2.51 be noted.   c)     In relation to fees and charges discussed in Paragraphs 2.60 to 2.61 and Appendix A:                                i.            THAT authority be delegated to the relevant Executive Director to agree increases to existing fees and charges up to a maximum of 7%, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holders.                              ii.            THAT the supporting information in Appendix A in respect of all new fees and charges and those fees and charges where the proposed increase is over 7% be noted.                                 iii.        THAT the new fees and charges, and all proposed increases which exceed 7%, as shown in Appendix A be agreed, and authority be delegated to the relevant Executive Director to introduce those changes.                                iv.        THAT authority be delegated to the Executive Director Corporate Services to reduce specific fees and charges in exceptional cases, as outlined in Paragraph 2.61.   d)    THAT the Council’s planned use of reserves, as summarised in Paragraphs 2.71 to 2.73 and Appendix B be agreed.   e)    THAT the summary of the Autumn Budget, Spending Review and Provisional Local Government Financial Settlement in Paragraphs 2.52 to 2.57 be noted.   f)      THAT the risks to the Council, as summarised in Section Four of the report be noted.