Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: December 10, 2024

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED: Cabinet a)    Approved for consultation the 2025-26 Draft Budget, including:                  I.          an estimated net revenue budget of £933.8m (£427.7m excluding Dedicated Schools Grant) as set out in Appendix A                II.          an average Band D Council Tax of £1,866.98 for West Northamptonshire Council, which represents an average increase of 4.99%. (2.99% increase in ‘core’ Council Tax and 2% Adult Social Care Precept)              III.          proposed Fees and Charges as detailed in Appendix C             IV.          provisional dedicated schools grant budget of £506m as detailed in Appendix D               V.          the draft Capital Programme additions as set out in Appendix E.   b)    Noted the estimated tax base for West Northamptonshire at 146,150 Band D equivalent properties, as set out in paragraph 6.54. c)     Delegated authority to the Executive Director – Finance to agree and set the final tax base. d)    Delegated authority to the Executive Director – Finance to take the necessary steps to introduce the new premiums on second homes as set out in paragraphs 6.57. e)    For the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG):        I.          Notes the provisional allocations and planned usage of the DSG for 2025-26 pending the final DSG settlement      II.          Following consultation with the Schools Forum, delegates authority to the Executive Director for Children’s Services to determine the DSG 2025-26 schools funding formula, high needs funding arrangements and the Early Years Funding Formula in line with Department for Education guidance.   REASONS RESOLVED: To ensure that the Council complies with its Constitution and all other relevant requirements in setting the budget for West Northamptonshire Council.   ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: The setting of the budget is carried out in accordance with the Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules set out in the Constitution. The provisions of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 set out what the Council has to base its budget calculations upon and require the Council to set a balanced budget with regard to the advice of its Chief Finance Officer.