The Council's meeting scheduled for Wednesday 25 February 2026 was set to discuss a review of committee proportionality, an amendment to the Medium Term Financial Plan and Capital Programme budgets, and the appointment of a permanent Chief Executive Officer. The meeting agenda also included reports on the Chief Finance Officer's statutory report, the Capital and Investment Strategy, and the Treasury Management Strategy.

Committee Proportionality Review

A review of committee proportionality was scheduled, prompted by a change in the Conservative and Reform UK Groups' membership. Since the last review in May 2025, Councillor Kathryn Gibbon had moved from the Reform UK Group to the Conservative Group. This change meant the Conservative Group now held an overall majority on the Council. The report outlined that, in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and associated regulations, committee memberships would need to be adjusted to reflect this majority. A table detailed the notional seat entitlements per group, showing the adjusted number of seats with the majority principle applied. The report recommended that the Council note the proportionality arrangement, the final allocation of seats on committees, and make the indicated appointments. It also proposed delegating authority to the Monitoring Officer to vary nominations on committees upon written confirmation from a Group Leader. Appendices were to follow, detailing the final allocation of seats and membership changes.

Senior Resourcing - Appointment of Permanent Chief Executive Officer and Head of Paid Service

The meeting was scheduled to consider the appointment of a permanent Chief Executive Officer and Head of Paid Service. The previous substantive post holder had left the Council on 18 January 2026, and an interim appointment had been made in December 2025 to ensure leadership continuity. The report detailed the recruitment process, which involved stages from advertisement and application to longlisting, technical interviews, shortlisting, and final assessments. The Senior Appointments and Pay Committee (SAPC) had unanimously recommended Zina Etheridge for the permanent role, with an annual salary of £240,000. Zina Etheridge's extensive experience across local government, the NHS, and central government was highlighted, including her most recent role as Chief Executive of NHS North East London and previously as Chief Executive of Haringey Council. The appointment was proposed to commence from April 2026.

Medium Term Financial Plan and Capital Programme - Amendment to the Budget

An amendment to the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and Capital Programme was scheduled for discussion, proposed by Councillor Stuart Wilson and seconded by Councillor Penny Drayton. The amendment highlighted the significant deterioration of many roads across Buckinghamshire due to prolonged periods of rain and freezing weather. It stated that road condition is a key measure of success from a resident's perspective. While the budget already proposed a record level of expenditure on road repair and resurfacing, the amendment argued that further action was required. The proposal was to release £5 million from the 'mitigating future financial risk' Reserve and add this to the 2026/2027 Revenue for Highways Road maintenance. This would amend the budget proposals for the overall revenue budget, corporate items (revenue reserves), net budget lines, and the reserves position. Additionally, the Council was asked to approve a resolution requesting that Cabinet begin immediate planning for assessing the deliverability and deployment of the additional £5 million for road repair and resurfacing.

Chief Finance Officer's Statutory Report 2026/27

The Chief Finance Officer's Statutory Report for 2026/27 was presented, as required under Section 25 of the Local Government Act 2003. The report was to provide an assessment of the robustness of the estimates made for the budget calculations and the adequacy of the proposed financial reserves. It noted the certainty provided by multi-year funding allocations for 2026/27 to 2028/29, but also highlighted the impact of the Fair Funding Review, which was expected to result in a reduction of £44.4 million in funding by 2028/29. The report detailed the assumptions used in the MTFP, including the government's commitment to take on funding for ongoing shortfalls in Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) SEND costs from April 2028 and provide grant funding towards deficits accumulated to 31 March 2026. The report also outlined the control environment, the robustness of the budget, and the adequacy of reserves, concluding that the budget proposals were robust and sustainable.

Capital and Investment Strategy 2026/27

The draft Capital and Investment Strategy for 2026/27 was presented for approval. The strategy provided the framework for how the Council would maximise the impact of its capital resources to deliver its key aims and priorities. It considered future capital investment needs linked to statutory requirements and corporate plan priorities, aiming to maximise available funding from external bidding and asset disposals. The strategy was underpinned by various other key strategic documents, including the Housing Strategy, Highways Asset Management Plan, and the Economic Growth Strategy. Minor amendments were proposed to strengthen key messages regarding future investments for economic growth and regeneration, and to align references to regeneration boards. The strategy was noted to be compliant with CIPFA's Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities.

Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2028-29

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement (TMSS) for 2026/27, including the Borrowing Strategy, Prudential Indicators, Annual Investment Strategy (AIS), and Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Policy, was presented for approval. The strategy outlined the Council's approach to managing its borrowing, investments, and cash flows to ensure adequate funds were available and that borrowing and investment were conducted safely and prudently. It noted the Council's intention to continue its internal borrowing strategy where appropriate and to monitor interest rates. The strategy also detailed the prudential indicators for capital expenditure, capital financing requirements, debt levels, affordability, and investment limits, all of which the Council expected to comply with. The report also included an economic update as of 31 December 2025, forecasting limited reductions in the Bank of England base rate and tepid GDP growth.

Council Tax Discounts and Premiums Policy 2026-27

The Council's policy for the granting of discretionary Council Tax discounts and the levying of premiums on empty homes, effective from 1 April 2026, was scheduled for discussion. The policy outlined the Council's approach to second homes, unoccupied and substantially unfurnished premises, and premiums on long-term empty homes. It detailed that from 1 April 2026, there would be a 0% discount for second homes and unoccupied properties. Premiums would be applied progressively for dwellings left unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for two, five, and ten years or more. The policy also detailed exceptions to these premiums, including for job-related armed forces accommodation and annexes. The report also included appendices detailing mandatory relief recipients, discretionary relief for non-profit making organisations, premises within rural settlements, relief under the Localism Act 2011, supporting small businesses, retail, hospitality and leisure relief, film studio relief, and section 49 hardship relief.

Council Tax Reduction Scheme Policy 2026/27

Proposals for amending the Council Tax Reduction (CTR) Scheme from 1 April 2026 were presented, aiming to reduce volatility for households, simplify assessments, and remove reliance on Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) data by transitioning to a banded scheme. This was expected to reduce processing times for new claims and deliver administrative savings. The scheme would apply to working-age claimants, with pension-age households continuing to be assessed under the nationally determined scheme. The proposals included a reduction in the capital limit from £16,000 to £6,000. A public consultation had been undertaken, with responses analysed. The report recommended the adoption of the banded CTR scheme, including transitional protection for households experiencing larger reductions in their awards.

Policy for the granting of Discretionary Non-Domestic Rate Relief

The Council's policy for the granting of discretionary non-domestic rate relief was presented, outlining criteria for mandatory and discretionary relief. This included charity relief, rural rate relief, relief for non-profit making organisations, and relief under the Localism Act 2011. The policy detailed the Council's general approach to granting relief, prioritising organisations that support corporate values, retain services locally, encourage self-reliance, and provide unique facilities. It also outlined considerations for charity shops, sports clubs, and premises within rural settlements. The policy also addressed the financial implications of granting relief, noting that the costs would be shared between Central Government grants and local sources, and detailed the administration of discretionary relief, including application processes, reviews, and appeals.

Supporting Small Businesses Relief

The report detailed the 2026 Supporting Small Businesses Relief (SSBR) scheme, which aimed to cap bill increases at £800 per year or relevant transitional relief caps for businesses losing eligibility for certain reliefs following the 2026 revaluation. The scheme would be provided through discretionary relief powers, funded by a section 31 grant from Central Government. Eligibility criteria were outlined, focusing on hereditaments that met specific usage conditions for retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors. The report also addressed subsidy control obligations, cash caps, and the sequence of applying reliefs.

Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Relief (1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 only)

The report outlined the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Business Rates Relief scheme for 2025/26, which would provide eligible, occupied properties with a 40% relief, up to a cash cap of £110,000 per business. This relief was noted as a temporary measure ending on 31 March 2026. The report detailed the eligibility criteria for hereditaments used for retail, hospitality, and leisure purposes, and the ordering of reliefs, with this scheme being applied after mandatory reliefs and other section 31 funded discretionary reliefs.

Film Studio Relief

The 2026/27 Film Studio Relief scheme was presented, offering eligible hereditaments identified as film studios by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) a 40% relief until 2034, backdated to 1 April 2024. The relief was intended to support the UK's film production sector and maintain its competitiveness. The report explained that the relief would be delivered through section 47 discretionary relief, funded by a section 31 grant from Central Government. Eligibility criteria focused on hereditaments wholly or mainly used for film studio purposes. The scheme was noted to be subject to UK domestic and international subsidy control obligations, with a Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) threshold of £315,000 per economic actor over a three-year period.

Section 49 – Hardship Relief

The Council's policy for granting discretionary relief under Section 49 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 was presented. This allowed for partial or full relief for non-domestic rate payments in cases of hardship, where it would be reasonable and have regard to the interests of Council Taxpayers. Applications were to be made in writing, supported by sufficient evidence, and assessed on their merits. Factors considered included the contribution to the local community, the financial viability of the business, and whether the situation was outside the ratepayer's control. The policy also outlined the appeal process, with decisions reviewed internally before a potential appeal to the Valuation Tribunal.

Pubs and Live Music Venues Relief (1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027)

The report detailed the proposed 15% business rates relief for eligible pubs and live music venues for 2026/27, in addition to other support measures. The relief would be delivered via section 47 discretionary relief, funded by a section 31 grant. Criteria for eligibility were provided, defining characteristics of pubs and live music venues, along with exclusions such as restaurants, nightclubs, and theatres. The relief amount was set at 15% of the chargeable amount, with no cap mentioned. The ordering of reliefs was also specified, with this relief being applied after mandatory reliefs and other section 31 funded discretionary reliefs.

Council Tax Discounts and Premiums Policy 2026-27

The Council's policy for discretionary Council Tax discounts and premiums on empty homes, effective from 1 April 2026, was presented. The policy detailed that there would be a 0% discount for second homes and unoccupied properties. Premiums would be applied progressively for dwellings left unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for two, five, and ten years or more. Exceptions to these premiums were outlined, including for job-related armed forces accommodation and annexes. The policy also covered the process for appeals and the Council's commitment to fraud prevention.

Chief Finance Officer's Statutory Report 2026/27

The Chief Finance Officer's Statutory Report for 2026/27 was presented, fulfilling the requirement under Section 25 of the Local Government Act 2003. The report assessed the robustness of budget estimates and the adequacy of proposed financial reserves. It highlighted the certainty provided by multi-year funding allocations but also the significant impact of the Fair Funding Review, which was projected to reduce funding by £44.4 million by 2028/29. The report detailed the assumptions underpinning the MTFP, including government support for SEND deficits and the use of a statutory override. It also covered the control environment, budget robustness, and reserve adequacy, concluding that the budget proposals were robust and sustainable.

Capital and Investment Strategy 2026/27

The draft Capital and Investment Strategy for 2026/27 was presented for approval. This strategy outlines how the Council will maximise the impact of its capital resources to deliver its key aims and priorities, considering future investment needs linked to statutory requirements and corporate plan objectives. It aims to maximise available funding from external bidding and asset disposals. The strategy is supported by various other key documents, including the Housing Strategy and Highways Asset Management Plan. Minor amendments were proposed to enhance messages on future investments for economic growth and regeneration, and to align references to regeneration boards. The strategy was confirmed to be compliant with CIPFA's Prudential Code for Capital Finance in Local Authorities.

Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2028-29

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement (TMSS) for 2026/27, encompassing the Borrowing Strategy, Prudential Indicators, Annual Investment Strategy (AIS), and Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) Policy, was presented for approval. The strategy detailed the Council's approach to managing its borrowing, investments, and cash flows to ensure adequate funds and safe investments. It noted the Council's intention to continue its internal borrowing strategy where appropriate and to monitor interest rates. The strategy also outlined prudential indicators for capital expenditure, capital financing requirements, debt levels, affordability, and investment limits, all of which the Council expected to comply with. An economic update as of 31 December 2025 was included, forecasting limited reductions in the Bank of England base rate and tepid GDP growth.

Council Tax Discounts and Premiums Policy 2026-27

The Council's policy for discretionary Council Tax discounts and premiums on empty homes, effective from 1 April 2026, was scheduled for discussion. The policy detailed that there would be a 0% discount for second homes and unoccupied properties. Premiums would be applied progressively for dwellings left unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for two, five, and ten years or more. Exceptions to these premiums were outlined, including for job-related armed forces accommodation and annexes. The policy also covered the process for appeals and the Council's commitment to fraud prevention.

Council Tax Reduction Scheme Policy 2026/27

Proposals for amending the Council Tax Reduction (CTR) Scheme from 1 April 2026 were presented, aiming to simplify assessments, reduce household volatility, and remove reliance on DWP data by transitioning to a banded scheme. This was expected to streamline claim processing and achieve administrative savings. The scheme would apply to working-age claimants, with pension-age households continuing under the nationally determined scheme. The proposals included a reduction in the capital limit from £16,000 to £6,000. A public consultation had been conducted, and its outcomes were analysed. The report recommended the adoption of the banded CTR scheme, including transitional protection for households experiencing significant reductions in their CTR awards.

Policy for the granting of Discretionary Non-Domestic Rate Relief

The Council's policy for discretionary non-domestic rate relief was presented, outlining criteria for mandatory and discretionary relief. This included charity relief, rural rate relief, relief for non-profit making organisations, and relief under the Localism Act 2011. The policy detailed the Council's approach to granting relief, prioritising organisations that align with corporate values, support local services, encourage self-reliance, and provide unique community facilities. It also covered considerations for charity shops, sports clubs, and premises in rural settlements, as well as the financial implications and administration of discretionary relief, including appeals.

Supporting Small Businesses Relief

The report detailed the 2026 Supporting Small Businesses Relief (SSBR) scheme, designed to cap bill increases at £800 per year or relevant transitional relief caps for businesses experiencing significant bill increases following the 2026 revaluation. This relief would be administered through discretionary relief powers, funded by a section 31 grant from Central Government. Eligibility criteria were outlined, focusing on hereditaments that met specific usage conditions for retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors. The report also addressed subsidy control obligations, cash caps, and the sequence of applying reliefs.

Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Relief (1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 only)

The report outlined the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Business Rates Relief scheme for 2025/26, offering eligible, occupied properties a 40% relief, capped at £110,000 per business. This relief was noted as temporary, concluding on 31 March 2026. The report detailed the eligibility criteria for hereditaments used for retail, hospitality, and leisure purposes and the order in which reliefs would be applied, with this scheme being applied after mandatory reliefs and other section 31 funded discretionary reliefs.

Film Studio Relief

The 2026/27 Film Studio Relief scheme was presented, offering eligible hereditaments identified as film studios by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) a 40% relief until 2034, backdated to 1 April 2024. This relief aimed to support the UK's film production sector and maintain its international competitiveness. The report explained that the relief would be administered through section 47 discretionary relief, funded by a section 31 grant from Central Government. Eligibility criteria focused on hereditaments primarily used for film studio purposes. The scheme was subject to UK domestic and international subsidy control obligations, with a Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) threshold of £315,000 per economic actor over a three-year period.

Section 49 – Hardship Relief

The Council's policy for granting discretionary relief under Section 49 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 was presented. This policy allows for partial or full relief from non-domestic rates in cases of proven hardship, where it is deemed reasonable and in the interests of Council Taxpayers. Applications were to be submitted in writing with supporting evidence, and each case would be assessed on its merits. Factors considered included the exceptional nature of the hardship, efforts made to pay rates, consideration of other eligible reliefs, whether the situation was beyond the ratepayer's control, the benefit to the local community, and the availability of assets. The policy also outlined the internal review process and the right to judicial review for appeals.

Pubs and Live Music Venues Relief (1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027)

The report detailed the proposed 15% business rates relief for eligible pubs and live music venues for 2026/27, in addition to other support measures. This relief would be administered via section 47 discretionary relief, funded by a section 31 grant. Criteria for eligibility were provided, defining characteristics of pubs and live music venues, along with exclusions such as restaurants and nightclubs. The relief amount was set at 15% of the chargeable amount, with no cap mentioned. The report also specified the order in which reliefs would be applied.

Leader Decisions Taken

A list of Leader Decisions taken between 18 November 2025 and 11 February 2026 was provided. These decisions covered a range of matters including statutory consultation responses for the Oxfordshire Strategic Rail Freight Interchange, the approval of a SEND Unit at Iver Village Junior School, amendments to freight zone permits in Ivinghoe, the Grand Union Canal Water Transfer Project consultation response, contract disputes related to Energy from Waste, proposed speed limit reductions, property lease renewals, parking restrictions near Winslow Station, the future of e-scooters, local electric vehicle infrastructure, estate strategy for Wycombe Air Park, and traffic regulation orders for Churchway, Haddenham.