Interview with Paul Riley, Head of Finance and Customer Services

Following an overview of the reports from the Head of Finance and Customer Services, Members described the decisions taken by Cabinet on the Capital Programme as sensible. In response to Members questions it was explained that Cabinet would be making a decision on the schemes going forward in December.  The Committee were informed that officers had been asked to come forward with proposals for the £1.3 million under spend and were separately being asked to put forward funding suggestions for the Capital Programme.

A member of the Committee raised the recommendation made in the Council as a Business Review for the appointment of a cross party Budget Working Group.  This was to enable the Committee to consider the Budget Strategy and proposals for the Capital Programme in more detail and providing a ‘risk sounding board’ as part of the budget making process.  The recommendation was approved by Cabinet in June. 

The Chairman asked the Committee for nominations and Councillors Moss, Yates and English were appointed to the working group.

It was resolved that:

a)  The cross-party Budget Working Group be established; and

b)  The first meeting be arranged by the Scrutiny Officer.

1.  That, for planning purposes, the expected strategic revenue projection be selected as giving the appropriate outcome.

2.  That a 2.5% increase in the level of Council Tax increase be agreed for planning purposes.

DECISION MADE:

1.  That, for planning purposes, the expected strategic revenue projection be selected as giving the appropriate outcome.

2.  That a 2.5% increase in the level of Council Tax increase be agreed for planning purposes.