Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 13, 2026

Purpose: This report sets out the draft budget for 2026/27, outlines proposed savings to achieve a balanced budget, and provides an updated Medium Term Financial Plan covering the period 2026 to 2031.

Content: Executive agreed that: a) The draft General Fund Budget for 2026/27 is proposed for consultation purposes and a Band D Council Tax of £207.03 (assuming a 2.99% Council Tax increase). b) The updated position on the General Fund Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) as shown in Appendix A be noted. c) the proposed fees and charges, as set out in Appendix B, be approved for consultation. d) The minimum level of General Fund balance of £3.649 Million, based on the 2026/27 risk assessment of balances as shown in paragraph 6.3, is approved. e) The pressures identified in section 4 of the report is noted. f) The savings identified in section 5 of the report is noted. g) The Section 25 Statement of Robustness of Estimates and Adequacy of Reserves as set out in Appendix D is noted. h) The decisions taken on recommendations a) to g) above be referred to the Joint Meeting of Scrutiny Committees on 28 January 2026 for consideration.