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 2024/25 financial year.

Decision

RESOLVED –

(i)            THAT the continued challenging and uncertain funding and economic outlook for the Council, including the in year forecast outturn position set out in section two of the report, be noted;

(ii)          THAT the financial position of the Housing Revenue Account, along with proposals to improve its financial sustainability detailed in paragraphs 2.31 to 2.40 of the report, be noted;

(iii)         THAT the rent policy for Highgate Newtown Housing, detailed in paragraphs 2.14 to 2.16 of the report, be agreed;

(iv)         THAT, in relation to fees and charges discussed in section 2.24 and Appendix A of the report

(a)          Authority be delegated to the relevant Executive Director to decide increases to existing fees and charges up to a maximum of 7%, in consultation with the relevant portfolio holders.

(b)          The particular content in Appendix A of the report, setting out supporting information for the new fees and charges and the fees and charges where the proposed increase is over 7%, be noted;

(c)          The new fees and charges, and the increase in fees and charges where the proposed increase is over 7%, as shown in Appendix A, be agreed and authority be delegated to the relevant Executive Director to introduce those changes;

(d)          Authority be delegated to the Executive Director Corporate Services to reduce specific fees and charges in exceptional cases as outlined in paragraph 2.25 of the report;

(v)          THAT the Council’s planned use of reserves, summarised in Appendix B of the report, be agreed;

(vi)         THAT the Council’s forecast finance position at Quarter Two of 2023/24, as outlined in paragraphs 2.41 to 2.44 and Appendix C of the report, be noted; and

(vii)        THAT the risks outlined in section four of the report be noted.