Rachael Ward

... approved the 2025/26 Dedicated Schools Grant management plan to 2031/32, noting the severe financial impact of the forecast cumulative deficit and allocating funds for a Local SEND Reform Plan.

...approved the Housing Revenue Account budget for 2026/27, including rent increases for dwelling and garage rents, and the management fee payable to Solihull Community Housing.

...approved the Medium Term Financial Strategy for 2026/27 to 2028/29, recommended a 4.99% council tax increase for 2026/27, and set the budget for 2026/27 at £244.357 million, all for approval by Full Council.

...approved the Council's participation in the UK government's Pride in Place Programme as the local accountable body, and the appointment of an independent Neighbourhood Chair and Neighbourhood Board for Chelmsley Wood East.

...approve the procurement and award of a contract for Community Information and Advice Services, with a revised model focusing on local, accessible, and digitally supported delivery.