Issue - meetings

The report of the Head of Finance

The report was presented by the Head of Finance.

A discussion followed. It was explained by the Head of Finance that the proposed 1% increase in precept was initially suggested for a balanced budget and was still open for review. In response to a question about future budgets it was explained that a forecasted 2028/2029 budget existed in case of a delay to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), to provide estimated costs to the future authority or authorities and to support the possibility of potential Town Council status. In response to concerns raised about the balancing of the 2028/29 budget, it was explained that it would depend on the position of the Working Party following LGR. Areas where budget balancing could be achieved included council tax, preventative maintenance budget, ground maintenance and events.

Concerns were raised about the costs of maintenance and replacement play equipment in Coalville, Sharpley Avenue, Coral and Stadium Close Parks. Assurance was provided to the Committee that the Coalville Park enquiry would be taken to the relevant team, and a cost breakdown would be made available on all parks. More information on Melrose Road and Western Avenue Play Areas was requested from Committee members, including a detailed breakdown for ward-specific spending.

Additional funding proposals were moved by the Chairman of the Working Party, as the report detailed 16% in reserves. These were as follows:

• £5,000 for a memorial tree in Coalville Park (income-generating via plaques).
• £5,000 for extra events flexibility.
• £1,000 increase for Coalville in Bloom.
• £2,000 for Sharpley Avenue tree planting.
• £1,000 for Scotlands playing field biodiversity area.
• Proposed 2% precept increase (~£1.62 per household annually).

It was seconded by Councillor L Windram and put to a vote.

The motion was CARRIED.

Concerns were raised by a member that they did not have any foresight to the proposals and therefore no time to discuss any additional proposals for other ward-specific areas.

A member expressed their gratitude to the Finance for all their work on the budgets despite sparse resourcing.

Members were thanked for their comments.

RECOMMENDED THAT:

The following additional funding proposals be considered as part of the Budget process:

1) £5,000 for a memorial tree in Coalville Park.

2) 5,000 for extra events flexibility.

3) £1,000 increase for ‘Coalville in Bloom’.

4) £2,000 for Sharpley Avenue tree planting.

5) £1,000 for Scotlands playing field biodiversity area.

6) Proposed 2% precept increase.