The Council meeting on Thursday, 12 February 2026, focused heavily on the council's financial future, with significant decisions made regarding the revenue and capital budgets for the upcoming years. Key outcomes included the approval of a 2.99% council tax increase, the deferral of mandatory food waste collections until April 2028 due to funding concerns, and the approval of the capital programme for 2026-2030 and the associated capital strategy.

Budget and Council Tax Increase Approved

The council approved its revenue budget for 2026/27, which includes a 2.99% increase in council tax across all funds. This decision was made despite concerns raised by the Conservative Group regarding the lack of provision for food waste collection and community governance reviews. The budget was approved with 16 votes for, 9 against, and 1 abstention.

Food Waste Collections Delayed

A significant discussion revolved around the implementation of mandatory food waste collections. The council noted the government's previous commitment to fully fund these collections, but expressed dissatisfaction with the shortfall and lack of transparency in the provisional finance settlement. Consequently, the council resolved to write to the Secretary of State requesting permission to delay the implementation of weekly food waste collection until after the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is concluded, aiming to maximise economies of scale. Officers have also notified DEFRA of the intention to implement food waste collections from April 2028. This decision was made to mitigate short-term financial risks and protect existing services.

Capital Programme and Strategy Approved

The council approved the General Fund Capital Programme for 2026-2030 and the associated Capital Strategy for 2026/27. This programme includes significant investments in areas such as the Stockyard development, Asset Development Programme, and preventative planned maintenance. The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital programme for 2026/27 was also approved, focusing on maintaining and improving council homes to meet the Decent Homes Standard.

Treasury Management Strategy and Prudential Indicators Adopted

The Treasury Management Strategy and Prudential Indicators for 2026/27 were adopted. These set out the council's approach to managing its borrowing and investments, aiming for security, liquidity, and optimal return. The strategy includes limits on borrowing activity and a policy on borrowing in advance of need. The Minimum Revenue Provision (MRP) policy, which outlines how the council will pay for capital assets through revenue, was also approved.

Motion on Hospitality and Business Sector Support Passed

A motion was passed calling on the council to write to the government requesting a temporary reduction in VAT for the hospitality and small business sector, a reversal of the increase in Employer National Insurance contributions for hospitality businesses, and the introduction of a fully funded Retail, Hospitality and Leisure business rate relief scheme. Council officers will also engage with the Melton Mowbray BID and the Regeneration team to ensure available support is communicated to businesses.

Other Discussions

The meeting also included announcements from the Mayor and the Leader of the Council, public question time (no questions were received), and questions from members on various council policies and services, including housing policies for domestic violence victims, council finances, Section 106 monies, mental health services, parish council support during LGR, council interaction with parish councils, planning services, and lobbying for local businesses.

The council also approved the revenue budget proposals for the Housing Revenue Account for 2026/27, including a rent increase in line with government policy. The meeting concluded with the approval of the Treasury Management Strategy and Prudential Indicators for 2026/27.