The Boston Town Area Committee (BTAC) met on Thursday 22 January 2026 to discuss the proposed budget for 2026/27, review events programming, and consider an application for Green Flag status for Central Park. The committee approved the proposed budget, which includes a 1.67% increase in the Council Tax Band D charge, and agreed to fund a programme of events for the upcoming year, opting for a budget that includes an inclusive music event. They also endorsed the submission of a Green Flag Award application for Central Park, signalling a commitment to maintaining and improving the park's standards.

Review of 2025 Events and Funding Proposal for Events in 2026/27

The committee reviewed the success of 2025 events and considered funding proposals for the 2026/27 events calendar. Two budget options were presented: Budget Option 1 at £41,500, which included a £17,000 contribution for a three-day Christmas Festival, and Budget Option 2 at £65,500, which included the same Christmas Festival funding plus an additional £24,000 towards an inclusive music event. The report highlighted that the proposed events programme aims to support Boston's development as a town known for its events, fostering community cohesion, increasing footfall for local businesses, and promoting arts, culture, and heritage. The committee resolved to approve Budget Option 2, which includes the inclusive music event.

Draft Budget Setting 2026/27

The committee considered the draft budget for 2026/27 and the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) covering 2026/27 to 2030/31. The report indicated a forecast deficit of £15,042 for 2025/26, which would be covered by reserves, leaving a projected reserve balance of £275,057. For 2026/27, the proposed budget requirement was £779,470, with a Band D Council Tax charge of £82.44, representing a 1.67% increase. This increase was noted as being approximately 3 pence per week for Council Taxpayers in Band D. The committee recommended that BTAC note the 2026/27 and MTFP position and recommend it to Cabinet and Full Council for approval. They also recommended the Special Expense precept for 2026/27 at £779,470 and the Council Tax Band D charge of £82.44. Furthermore, the committee recommended increasing the minimum reserve balance from £70,000 to £100,000 for the period 2026/27 to 2030/31.

Central Park Green Flag Application

The committee received a report seeking approval to submit a Green Flag Award application for Central Park. The Green Flag Award is a national benchmark for well-managed public parks, and achieving this status would provide recognition for the park's quality, promote civic pride, and encourage community engagement. The report detailed significant investments already made in Central Park, including improvements to the skate park, play area, outdoor gym equipment, and the installation of a Changing Places facility. A comprehensive Management Plan had also been developed, outlining strategies for ongoing maintenance, environmental management, biodiversity, and community involvement. The committee resolved to support the submission of the Green Flag Award application and endorse the continued implementation of the Management Plan. The cost of the application was noted as approximately £389 - £440 + VAT.

Work Programme

The committee received an update on the current Work Programme and discussed proposed items for the 2026/27 municipal year. Members suggested including reports on securing attendance from the Lincolnshire County Council Portfolio Holder for Highways, a future report on public conveniences, and a report on the work of the Town Board. The committee agreed to incorporate these amendments into its Work Programme. It was also noted that consideration was being given to the availability of £1.5 million of Pride in Place Impact Fund funding.