The meeting covered several key topics, including the approval of previous minutes, updates on council actions, financial reports, a waste management contract, performance metrics, risk management, and the purchase of a property for a family with specific needs.

Council Tax Premiums and Parking Services

The council approved changes to council tax premiums for second and empty homes. They also approved the parking services works program for 2024-26.

Capital Outturn 2023-24

Councillor James Broach presented the capital outturn for the 2023-24 financial year. The council rephased £6.8 million of the general fund budget and £41.9 million of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget into the new financial year to complete key projects. The rephasing was due to unforeseen delays. The council approved the rephasing of budgets as set out in Appendix A.

Revenue Outturn 2023-24

Councillor James Broach also presented the revenue outturn for the 2023-24 financial year. The council reported a reduction in the planned use of general fund reserves by £601,000. The HRA saw a small adverse movement of £54,000. The council approved the recommendations set out in Section 2 of the report.

Waste Management Contract

Councillor Santorini-Vampante discussed the need to renew the parent company guarantee for the waste management contract due to a change in ownership from ABATA SAU to FCC Environment UK Ltd. The council agreed to enter into a deed of renovation to transfer liabilities.

Performance Exception Report

The council reviewed its performance metrics for the last quarter of 2023-24. 85% of projects were on schedule, and 65% of key performance indicators (KPIs) were met or exceeded. The council noted the report.

Risk Management

Councillor Kiran Thorpe presented the quarter four risk register. The council noted the report and the actions being taken to manage risks.

Treasury Management and Investment Strategy

Councillor James Broach reviewed the treasury management activity and prudential indicators for 2023-24. The council complied with the approved strategy and legislative provisions. The council noted the report.

Appointments and Achievements

The council approved appointments to cabinet panels, committees, and boards, as well as representatives on executive outside bodies. The council also highlighted key achievements, including the first-ever community awards, a public space protection order in Welwyn Garden City, and the Tree City of the World status for the fifth year running.

Urgent Business: Property Purchase

Councillor Jemma Moore presented an urgent report on the purchase of a property to meet the housing needs of a family with a disabled member. The council approved the purchase to ensure the family has suitable accommodation.