The Cabinet of Boston Borough Council met on Wednesday 10 December 2025, approving a new Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy and recommending amendments to the Council's Contract Procedure Rules to Full Council. The meeting also noted the Quarter 2 2025/26 financial forecast, which indicated a £0.571 million deficit, and recommended amendments to the Capital Programme for approval.

Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy Approved

The Cabinet approved a new Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy, aiming to align procedures across the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership (S&ELCP). The policy reinforces the Council's zero-tolerance approach to fraud, bribery, corruption, and theft, outlining responsibilities for staff, councillors, and partners. Councillor Sandeep Ghosh, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Economic Growth, highlighted that the policy is crucial for safeguarding public funds and aligns with the national 'Fighting Fraud and Corruption Locally' strategy. The S151 Officer, Russell Stone, was delegated authority to make minor amendments to the policy to reflect legislative changes.

Contract Procedure Rules Recommended for Adoption

Amendments to the Council's Contract Procedure Rules were recommended for adoption by Full Council. John Medler, Assistant Director for Governance & Monitoring Officer, presented the revised rules, which aim to ensure robust, up-to-date procedures that provide clarity for officers, members, and potential suppliers. The changes are necessary due to updates in public procurement legislation, including the Procurement Act 2023. Councillor Sandeep Ghosh noted that these amendments are vital for maintaining a clear and consistent approach to contract awards, safeguarding public trust, and promoting accountability. The Cabinet also approved revised Delegations to Officers, which set out authorisation for decision-making in relation to these rules.

Quarter 2 Financial Forecast Shows £0.571m Deficit

The Cabinet noted the Quarter 2 2025/26 financial forecast, which projects a £0.571 million deficit for the year. Russell Stone, Director of Finance, presented the report, highlighting that while income pressures exist in areas such as Planning, Cremation, and Commercial Waste, these are partially offset by savings from senior leadership vacancies, reduced IT costs, and anticipated additional car parking income. The Council's reserves are forecast to remain healthy at £18.371 million. The report also detailed amendments to the Capital Programme, totalling £0.100 million, which the Cabinet recommended for approval by Full Council. Key areas of continued investment include the Geoff Moulder Leisure Centre, Disabled Facilities Grants, Waste Vehicles and Caddies, and IT Systems.

Council Tax Support Scheme Consultation Results Noted

The Cabinet noted the results of the consultation on the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27. The consultation explored options for reducing the maximum level of support for working-age claimants to balance the Council's budget. While 35% of respondents favoured retaining the current support levels, 43% supported a reduction. The report indicated that reducing support could lead to increased Council Tax payments for claimants and potentially higher levels of debt and non-payment. Councillor Sandeep Ghosh emphasised the need to balance the Council's financial position with the support provided to vulnerable households. The Cabinet recommended a specific option to Full Council, which aims to balance financial needs while minimising the impact on claimants.

Other Business

The Cabinet also received reports on the Quarter 2 2025/26 Performance and Risk Report, and the Council / Public Sector Partnership Services Transformation and Service Modernisation Programme. Decisions on the latter two items were made in exempt session.

The meeting was attended by Councillor Dale Broughton (Leader) and Councillor Mike Gilbert (Deputy Leader), along with other councillors and council officers.