The Council meeting held on Wednesday, 28 February 2024, saw the rejection of the proposed budget and Council Tax for 2024-25. The meeting also approved the annual Pay Policy Statement for 2024-25.

Croydon Pay Policy Statement 2024/25 Approved

The Council approved the annual Pay Policy Statement for the financial year 2024-25. This statement outlines the Council's policies on the remuneration of its senior staff, including the Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, whose salary was contractually attached to the national pay review body for Chief Executives. The salary for this post was set at £199,210, effective from 1 April 2023. The statement also clarifies the definition of Deputy Chief Officers and notes that the Market Supplement Policy and Procedure is under review. Proposed changes to the process for approving salary packages of £100k or more were also noted, with officers requested to prepare reports on consequential changes to the Appointments and Disciplinary Committee's terms of reference and the Council's Constitution.

Budget and Council Tax Proposals Rejected

The Council's budget and Council Tax proposals for 2024-25 were rejected by a vote of 33 for and 36 against. The Executive Mayor, Mayor Jason Perry, was advised to reconsider the budget proposal in light of the objections raised. The Chair noted that the Council had a legal duty to agree a budget by the statutory deadline of 11 March 2024, and a further meeting was scheduled for 6 March 2024.

Scheme of Members' Allowances Deferred

The Scheme of Members' Allowances was deferred to the meeting on 6 March 2024, to be considered after the budget item. Councillor Holly Ramsey left the meeting and did not participate or vote on the remaining items.

Announcements

The Chair announced the departure of Councillor Mike Bonello, the ward councillor for Woodside Ward, thanking him for his service. The Chair also provided an update on his charities and announced forthcoming events, including a flag raising for Autism Action Week, a performance by Young Stars of Croydon, and a Gala Dinner. Mayor Jason Perry expressed his pleasure in presenting a balanced budget that demonstrated financial discipline and good governance.

The meeting concluded at 8:46 pm.