Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: October 13, 2025

Purpose: An update on the MTFP and Budget process for 2026-27

Content: (1)            That the Cabinet noted the contents of the report, including:   (i)             The updated General Fund Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) (2026/27 to 2028/29);   (ii)            The updated Housing Revenue Account Budgets for 2026/27 to 2028/29; and   (iii)           The updated General Fund and Housing Revenue Account Capital Programmes (2026/27 to 2028/29).   (2)            That the Cabinet noted the proposed savings and growth items were indicative only at this stage (rather than clear budget proposals) and that the views of the Cabinet were sought to help enable the development of firmer proposals for inclusion in the initial draft budget in December 2025.   (3)            That the Cabinet discussed it was sensible to end the co-mingling of waste and hoped the Council would introduce green waste charges to bring EFDC in line with all the other Essex local authorities to help address the underlying remaining budget deficit in order to set a balanced – and sustainable – budget for 2026/27.   (4)            That the Cabinet discussed the challenges of bringing in new income, but no actions were agreed (in the context of the updated Medium-Term Financial Plan) for the further refinement of the Capital Programme.