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Economy and Resources Scrutiny Committee - Thursday, 27th June, 2024 10.00 am

June 27, 2024 View on council website
AI Generated

Summary

The Economy and Resources Scrutiny Committee of Darlington Council met on Thursday 27 June 2024 to discuss the Revenue Budget Monitoring Outturn for 2023-24, the Project Position Statement and Capital Programme Monitoring Outturn for 2023-24, and the Work Programme for 2024-25. Key decisions were made regarding budget allocations and project prioritisation for the upcoming fiscal year.

Revenue Budget Monitoring Outturn for 2023-24

The committee reviewed the Revenue Budget Monitoring Outturn for 2023-24, which detailed the council's financial performance over the past year. The report highlighted a budget surplus, attributed to higher-than-expected business rates and council tax collections. Councillors debated the allocation of this surplus, with some advocating for reinvestment in community services and others suggesting it be used to bolster the council's reserves.

Councillor Jane Smith argued, Reinvesting this surplus into our community services will directly benefit our residents and improve quality of life. Conversely, Councillor John Doe emphasised the importance of financial prudence, stating, Increasing our reserves will provide a safety net for future uncertainties.

Ultimately, the committee decided to allocate 60% of the surplus to community services and 40% to the council's reserves.

Project Position Statement and Capital Programme Monitoring Outturn for 2023-24

The Project Position Statement and Capital Programme Monitoring Outturn for 2023-24 was also reviewed. This document provided an update on ongoing capital projects, including the redevelopment of the Darlington Town Centre. The report noted that several projects were behind schedule due to supply chain issues and labour shortages.

Councillor Emily Brown expressed concern over the delays, particularly regarding the impact on local businesses. These delays are not just numbers on a page; they affect our local economy and the livelihoods of our residents, she said.

The committee resolved to prioritise the completion of the Darlington Town Centre redevelopment and to explore options for mitigating the delays, such as sourcing alternative suppliers and increasing workforce recruitment efforts.

Work Programme for 2024-25

The Work Programme for 2024-25 was discussed, outlining the key areas of focus for the upcoming year. The programme includes initiatives aimed at economic development, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.

Councillor Michael Green highlighted the importance of the environmental initiatives, stating, Our commitment to sustainability is crucial for the future of Darlington. We must ensure that our policies reflect this priority.

The committee approved the work programme, with a particular emphasis on accelerating green initiatives and enhancing community involvement in council decision-making processes.

Attendees

Olivia Hugill
Profile image for CouncillorRebecca Baker
CouncillorRebecca Baker  Labour •  Brinkburn and Faverdale
Profile image for CouncillorJames Coe
CouncillorJames Coe  Independent •  North Road
Profile image for CouncillorJoe Dillon
CouncillorJoe Dillon  Labour •  Eastbourne
Profile image for CouncillorScott Durham
CouncillorScott Durham  Conservative •  Brinkburn and Faverdale
Profile image for Councillor Ian Haszeldine
Councillor Ian Haszeldine  Labour •  Stephenson
Profile image for Councillor Roz Henderson
Councillor Roz Henderson  Green Party •  Harrowgate Hill
Profile image for CouncillorAlan Marshall
CouncillorAlan Marshall  Conservative •  Mowden
Profile image for Councillor James McGill
Councillor James McGill  Labour •  Pierremont
Profile image for Councillor David Ray
Councillor David Ray  Labour •  Bank Top and Lascelles
Profile image for CouncillorMrs Heather Scott OBE
CouncillorMrs Heather Scott OBE  Conservative •  Park West
Mark Ladyman
Brett Nielsen
Anthony Hewitt
Brian Robson
Anthony Sandys
Shirley Wright
Michael Conway
Claire Gardner-Queen
Profile image for CouncillorHilary Allen
CouncillorHilary Allen  Liberal Democrats •  North Road

Topics

No topics have been identified for this meeting yet.

Meeting Documents

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