Further to the discussion on the finance reports (minute 371 refers), it was moved by Councillor Hall and seconded by Councillor Morrell that the recommendations within the General Fund Budget report be approved. In accordance with the Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2014, voting on this item was recorded and taken as follows:
Councillors Boothby, Camamile, Cook, Hall, Kirby, Ladkin, Morrell, Nickerson, O’Shea, Richards, Rooney, Surtees, Sutton, Wallace, Ward, Williams and Wright voted FOR the motion (17);
Councillors Bill, Bray, Cartwright, Mr Cope, Mrs Cope, Crooks, Hodgkins, Hollick, Lynch, Nichols, Taylor and Witherford voted AGAINST the motion (12).
The motion was declared CARRIED and it was
RESOLVED –
(i) The general fund budget for 2016/17 and 2017/18 be approved;
(ii) The special expenses area budget for 2016/17 and 2017/18 be approved;
(iii) The movement in general fund reserves and balances for 2016/17 and 2017/18 be approved.
Members gave consideration to the general fund budget for 2017/18. It was reported that almost £200k savings above those predicted in February 2016 had been achieved, the enforcement, appeals and planning capacity reserves had been merged, and that contributions to the Developing Communities Fund and business rates reserve had been incorporated.
In response to questions about Block C at the Crescent, it was noted that there were two units still to let, but that a joint agent had been appointed who was confident that they could attract interest. It was requested that members be provided with a total loss figure, including not only rental income but also business rates.
In relation to planning enforcement and appeals, it was noted that the reserve was recommended to be £90-100k less than the previous year, but members were reassured that this would be sufficient.
Councillor Rooney left the meeting at 7.21pm.
RESOLVED – the report be noted.