Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: November 12, 2025

Purpose:

Content: Cabinet received a report - Balancing the Budget which gave an update on the savings identified in the September Medium Term Financial Strategy and identified some further savings for next year.  The savings were based on a mix of efficiencies, commercial options and business change projects which meant there would be no service reductions.   It was also noted that the budget also recommended some growth for next year which included a one-off amount of £50 thousand for celebrating the 80th Anniversary.   The Portfolio Holder for Resources and Performance advised that as a result of the disruption caused by implementing the Herts County Council Active Travel improvements in the Old Town High Street it was proposed to introduce a one-hour of free parking at Church Lane North car park on Monday to Saturday between 06.00-16.00.  This was estimated to cost £5,000 and would support the Old Town while a number of free bays were out of action.    Members welcomed the additional funding for the Town’s 80th anniversary celebrations and looked forward to taking part in the events organised.   Following debate regarding the Old Town Parking, it was agreed that the consultation and deliberations on the parking issue with Ward Councillors, residents and businesses, had been extensive but a decision had been reached and welcomed on the one-hour free parking proposal which showed the Council’s commitment to the High Street.   Members agreed to include an additional recommendation (7) to reflect this.   Officers were pleased to advise that the Government’s announcement on the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) funding to be spent on recycling and refuse services had been higher than expected which would allow the extension to the flat block recycling programme.   The Fair Funding announcement was also expected to be made by the Government in December.   It was RESOLVED:   1             The Balancing the Budget options as set out in the report and Appendix A, totalling £84,640 (saving) for the General Fund 2026/27 (and £21,600 for the HRA) be approved and incorporated into the Council’s budget setting processes; 2             That it be noted that the future savings target can be met from Fees and Charges as set out in paragraph 4.6.5 (subject to Government Funding, Local Government Reorganisation and unidentified growth); 3             The revised GF MTFS financial summary, as shown in section 4.9 to this report be noted; 4             That the completion of the Business rates for 2026/27 (NDR 1) be delegated to the Strategic Director (S151) after consultation with the Resources and Performance Portfolio holder (paragraph 4.3.4 refers). 5             That the Council’s recognised unions be consulted regarding the proposed budget package; 6             That key partners and other stakeholders be consulted, and their views considered as part of the 2026/27 budget setting process. 7             That the introduction of 1 hour free parking at Church Lane North car park between Monday to Saturday 06.00-16.00 from January 2026 up until the completion of the Active Travel improvements in the Old Town High Street at an expected cost of £5,000 be approved.