The Kent County Council meeting on 19 March 2026 saw councillors approve the annual budget, including a 3.99% increase in council tax, and discuss the council's position on government proposals for local government reorganisation. The meeting also included tributes to former councillors and a debate on the council's pay policy.

Tributes to Former Councillors

The meeting began with tributes to two former councillors, Becki Bruno and Lieutenant Colonel Graham Weston. Councillor Sarah Hudson spoke movingly about Becki Bruno, highlighting her warmth, humour, and creativity, and her advocacy against the assisted dying bill. Councillor Lyndon Kemkaran, Leader of the Council, acknowledged both councillors as dedicated public servants. Councillor Mark Ellis recalled Becki Bruno's commitment to her community and her compassion for a homeless man. Councillor Harry Rayner paid tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Graham Weston, noting his service as a cabinet member and his responsibility for the dredging of the River Stour. The council formally recorded its sense of loss and extended condolences to their families.

Budget and Council Tax Approved

The council approved its revenue budget for 2026-27 and the accompanying medium-term financial plan for 2026-29, along with a 10-year capital programme. A key decision was the increase of the council tax by 3.99%, which Councillor Linden Kemkaran, Leader of the Council, stated was a reduction from the previous year's increase and reflected a disciplined approach to finance. Several amendments to the budget were proposed by opposition groups, including proposals to freeze member allowances, increase funding for early intervention services, and allocate more funds to pothole repairs. All these amendments were defeated.

Local Government Reorganisation and Foundation Strategic Authorities

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the council's stance on local government reorganisation (LGR) and the government's invitation to express interest in Foundation Strategic Authority (FSA) status. Councillor Kemkaran reiterated his opposition to LGR in principle but stated that if it proceeds, Kent County Council's option 1A (one council for Kent and Medway with three area assemblies) is the most appropriate model. He explained that the council would not be submitting an expression of interest for FSA status at this time, as it could conflict with the ongoing LGR consultation and potentially create confusion and legal risks. This decision was met with criticism from some councillors, including Councillor Mike Sole, who argued that FSAs offer significant benefits for residents and that the council was missing an opportunity by not engaging with the process. Councillor Richard Streatfeild expressed concern about the financial implications of progressing LGR work without an allocated budget.

Member Allowances Scheme

The council debated and ultimately approved the Member Allowances Scheme for the period 2026-2030. The scheme recommended an increase in basic allowances in line with the Consumer Price Index including owner-occupiers' housing costs (CPIH), with an uplift of 3.8% for the first year. An amendment to freeze the rise for two years was proposed by Councillor Stuart Heaver but was defeated. Councillors also discussed the Special Responsibility Allowances (SRAs) for deputy cabinet members and the allocation of funds to combined member grants.

Treasury Management Update

The council noted the Treasury Management Mid-Year Update for 2025/26. The report detailed the council's borrowing and investment activities up to September 2025, highlighting the impact of economic factors such as interest rate fluctuations and inflation. Councillors Antony Hook and Harry Rayner both spoke in favour of reconvening the Treasury Management Group to provide greater scrutiny and education on these complex financial matters. Councillor Paul Stepto raised concerns about Lender's Option Borrower's Option (LOBO) loans, and Councillor Alister Brady questioned the reduction in the liquidity minimum and the performance of externally managed investments.

Pay Policy Statement

The council approved the publication of its Pay Policy Statement for 2026/27. This statement outlines the council's approach to pay, including a commitment to a minimum hourly salary of £13.56, which is above the National Living Wage and the Voluntary Living Wage. The policy also details the performance assessment process for progression within grades and the use of a market premium policy to attract and retain staff. Councillor Richard Streatfeild raised concerns about a perceived broken promise regarding pay cuts, which was cautioned against by the Chairman due to the pre-election period. Councillor Alister Brady also commented on the fragmentation of communications with staff bodies regarding pay deals.

Proportionality and Committee Allocations

The council approved updated proportionality arrangements and seat allocations across committees, ensuring a fair representation of political groups. This technical exercise is undertaken when changes in political group membership significantly impact the balance of committees.

Motions for Time-Limited Debate

The meeting concluded with a time-limited debate on a motion proposed by Councillor David Wimble and seconded by Councillor Jeremy Eustace, declaring an illegal migration emergency in Kent. Councillor Alister Brady, on behalf of the Kent Labour Group, raised concerns about the appropriateness of debating this motion during the pre-election period, stating they would not engage in the debate and would report the process to the Electoral Commission and the local government ombudsman. The motion was carried. Two further motions, one from the Liberal Democrat Group regarding Merchant Navy and Red Ensign Day and another from the Green Party on strengthening water infrastructure resilience, could not proceed due to the absence of their proposers and seconders.