Purpose

To note the council’s funding outlook, financial position
and risks, including any new investment decisions. To consider new
Fees and Charges for the 2025/26 financial year.

Content

RESOLVED –
 

a)   
THAT the continued challenging and uncertain funding and economic
outlook for the Council as set out in Paragraphs 2.4 to 2.17 of the
report, along with the Council’s latest financial forecast
for the year in Paragraphs 2.18 to 2.21 be noted.
 

b)   
THAT the financial position of the Housing Revenue Account along
with proposals to improve its financial sustainability, as detailed
in Paragraphs 2.45 to 2.51 be noted.
 

c)    
In relation to fees and charges discussed in Paragraphs 2.60 to
2.61 and Appendix A:
 

                            
i.           
THAT authority be delegated to the relevant Executive Director to
agree increases to existing fees and charges up to a maximum of 7%,
in consultation with the relevant portfolio holders.
 

                          
ii.           
THAT the supporting information in Appendix A in respect of all new
fees and charges and those fees and charges where the proposed
increase is over 7% be noted.
 

                             
iii.       
THAT the new fees and charges, and all proposed increases which
exceed 7%, as shown in Appendix A be agreed, and authority be
delegated to the relevant Executive Director to introduce those
changes.
 

                            
iv.       
THAT authority be delegated to the Executive Director Corporate
Services to reduce specific fees and charges in exceptional cases,
as outlined in Paragraph 2.61.
 

d)   
THAT the Council’s planned use of reserves, as summarised in
Paragraphs 2.71 to 2.73 and Appendix B be agreed.
 

e)   
THAT the summary of the Autumn Budget, Spending Review and
Provisional Local Government Financial Settlement in Paragraphs
2.52 to 2.57 be noted.
 
f)     
THAT the risks to the Council, as summarised in Section Four of the
report be noted.