Issue - meetings

To receive and consider the report of the Deputy Director of Finance (enclosed).

That members agree the contents of this report in order to start the budget consultation process and note the following proposed budget items, in particular:

·         A proposed 1.99% increase in council tax in 2021/22 with no proposed cuts to services

·         The forecast balanced budget for 2021/22 and the forecast budget position in 2022/23 and 2023/24

Councillor Peter Wilson, Executive Member (Resources) presented the report of the Deputy Director of Finance which sets out the budget position for 2021/22 including the forecast for the following 2 years to 2023/24 and also presents the relevant proposals in respect of the use of forecast resources identified in 2021/22 and the budget consultation.

Members noted the proposed Council Tax increase of 1.99% in 2022/23 and 2022/23. This would be revisited every year and would be dependent upon the outcome of the Government announcements regarding the Fair Funding Review and review of the business rates system. It was also noted that investment of approximately £1m would be continued to deliver corporate strategy priorities, alongside capital investments of over £56m in corporate priority projects and strategies to reduce the budget deficit in the medium term.

Members supported the proposed increase in Council Tax and discussed the support available to those who may struggle to pay their council tax because of the challenging circumstances they find themselves in. It was suggested that communications be released highlighting why the council propose the increase. Members also addressed whether parking charges would need to increase in the future and considered the impact this would have on the Town Centre.

Decision:

That members agree the contents of this report in order to start the budget consultation process and note the following proposed budget items, in particular:

·         A proposed 1.99% increase in council tax in 2021/22 with no proposed cuts to services

·         The forecast balanced budget for 2021/22 and the forecast budget position in 2022/23 and 2023/24

Reasons for recommendation(s):

The council wishes to set out its budget proposals and consult on them with residents

Alternative options considered and rejected:

None, this is the draft budget and alternative budgets may be considered as part of the final budget proposal.