Mr Mark Green, Director of Finance and Business Improvement, addressed the Committee.  It was explained that the revenue budget for the Committee was underspent by £221,000.  The purchase of properties for temporary accommodation had contributed to a positive revenue variance, while Grounds Maintenance income had exceeded the budget by £118,000.  It was stated that the £15m capital programme had largely been delivered.

In response to questions from the Committee, Officers said:

·  Expected savings had not been realised for the Public Conveniences contract, resulting in an overspend.  The budget was to be increased next year to ensure that the current service continued.

·  A review of recruitment in Housing, following a number of staff vacancies, had been undertaken.  As a result of the review, further recruitment had taken place and the Housing Teams were almost fully staffed.  This meant that a significant underspend was no longer anticipated for staffing costs.

·  Staff were allocated to the enforcement of HMO (House in Multiple Occupancy) licences.  It was acknowledged that the Council may not be aware of all HMOs in the Borough, and therefore information from Members regarding this was welcomed.

RESOLVED: That:

1.  The revenue position at the end of the third quarter and the actions being taken or proposed to improve the position, where significant variances have been identified, be noted.

2.  That the capital position at the end of the third quarter is noted.