Ms
Ellie Dunnet, Head of Finance, updated the Committee on the budget
position at the end of the First Quarter. Ms Dunnet explained that while there was an
overspend regarding parking services, there was an overall
underspend. The Council was expected to
remain within the agreed budget for the year.
Councillors Springett and McKay spoke on this item as Visiting
Members.
In
response to a question from a Visiting Member, Mr Rob Jarman, Head
of Planning & Development, confirmed that recruitment was
underway for a Conservation Officer.
The risks associated with the position being vacant were
acknowledged, however, Maidstone Borough Council was working with
Historic England regarding a number of sites including Wren’s
Cross. Furthermore, the current
situation was considered manageable due to the specialist knowledge
that had been developed within current officer capacity.
RESOLVED:
1)
That the revenue position at the end of the first
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 first
quarter be noted.