The Budget Scrutiny Inquiry Task and Finish Group met on Tuesday 7 January 2025 to review the council's draft budget and medium-term financial plan. The group was scheduled to hear from Cabinet Members responsible for Culture & Leisure, Health & Wellbeing, Homelessness & Regulatory Services, and Planning & Regeneration to understand their priorities and budgetary strategies.

Culture & Leisure Budget

The meeting was scheduled to include a discussion on the budget for Culture & Leisure, with Councillor Clive Harriss, the Cabinet Member for this area, expected to present his priorities and the overarching strategy for the budget. The inquiry group was to have the opportunity to question Councillor Harriss and supporting officers.

Health & Wellbeing Budget

The Health & Wellbeing portfolio was also on the agenda, with Councillor Angela Macpherson, the Cabinet Member, set to outline her priorities and the strategic approach to the budget for this sector. The inquiry group was scheduled to engage in questioning following her introduction.

Homelessness & Regulatory Services Budget

Councillor Mark Winn, Cabinet Member for Homelessness & Regulatory Services, was due to present his department's priorities and the budget strategy. The inquiry group was scheduled to question him and his supporting officers on these matters.

Planning & Regeneration Budget

The final portfolio to be discussed was Planning & Regeneration, with Councillor Peter Strachan, the Cabinet Member, expected to present his priorities and the budget strategy for this area. The inquiry group was scheduled to conduct questioning following this presentation.

Background Papers

In preparation for the discussions, attendees were provided with links to several key documents. These included the Draft Budget Report, the Medium Term Financial Plan and Capital Programme, and the Council Tax Base Report. Supporting documents such as the Budget Consultation Results, Schedule of Fees and Charges, and an Equalities Impact Assessment were also made available.

The meeting was scheduled to conclude with the confirmation of the date for the next meeting, which was set for Thursday, 9 January 2025.