Agenda item

Report C/20/66 sets out the Council’s Draft General Fund budget for 2021/22.

Report C/20/66 sets out the Council’s Draft General Fund Budget for 2021/22. 

Members were reminded that an updated version of this report and appendix 1 were provided prior to this meeting.

Members’ comments included:

·           Off street parking – due to Covid19 an assumption had already been    made in a reduction of income which had been built into the MTFS.  It was mentioned a hope to reduce dependence on vehicles and parking spaces for the future, however alternative sources of income would need to be found.  Since the pandemic, there are no plans, at present, to increase parking charges. 

·           New Homes Bonus (NHB) – it was noted that this has decreased due to legacy payments ceasing and less entitlement for 2021/22.

·           FOI and Community Safety - The Transformation programme has meant a re-allocation of funding for these services. 

·           It was noticed that there is a significant reduction in income from Connect 38.  This is due to recent vacant space due to the pandemic. 

·           A holding budget increase of £15K for the memorial arch, however members were advised that these funds are to be allocated to High Street improvements.

·           Budget Consultation – it was agreed and confirmed the importance that all stakeholders are consulted.  The consultation has been publicised through various channels.  It was suggested that all councillors can help promote the consultation, maybe sending the relevant link to our website to those who ask.  

The Chairman ended discussions on this item by asking if further information could be provided with regard to the Transformation project and the movement of officers.  

Proposed by Councillor Connor McConville

Seconded by Councillor Patricia Rolfe; and

RESOLVED:

To receive and note report C/20/66. 

(Voting: For 4; Against 0; Abstentions 0)