Agenda and draft minutes

To receive any apologies for absence

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Kennett.

To receive and record any declarations of interests from Members present.

There were no declarations of interests relating to matters on the agenda.

The Committee was given an opportunity to scrutinise the Council budget for 2024/25.

Members asked questions of clarification from the Cabinet Lead for Finance and the officers and raised points in relation to:

·                     Guidance on how VAT was charged.

·                     The impact of the budget on the Council’s Reserves.

·                     The proposed percentage increase to be applied to fees and charges.

·                     The limitations placed on fees and charges.

·                     The Council’s investment strategy.

·                     The strategies that informed the Council’s Budget.

·                     How the Council would determine cuts to services, if deemed necessary.

·                     The proposed Capital Budget.

·                     The provision made for mayoral duties.

·                     The amount of money spent on external consultants.

In response to questions raised, the officers agreed to supply details of expenditure on external consultants to members of the Committee.

RESOLVED that the information, evidence and data presented be noted.