Agenda item

Report of the Strategic Director of Resources

Councillor K Merrie, Corporate and Finance Portfolio Holder, presented the report and moved the recommendations.  It was seconded by Councillor N Rushton.

Several Members across the Chamber spoke in support of the budget proposals and the collaborative approach taken between the political groups which had been a success.

Some comments were made in relation to the lower-than-expected government settlement figure and although disappointing, the focus should now be on the importance of ensuring the communities benefited from the funds.  The fair distribution of funds was also mentioned.

Some concerns were raised relating to the ongoing rising costs of the Marlborough Square Project.  It was agreed to provide the cost breakdown for this project, outside of the meeting.

The Chair of the Council put the motion to the vote.  A recorded vote being required, the voting was as detailed below.

RESOLVED THAT:

1)  The General Fund Revenue Budget for 2026/27 as summarised in section 2 of the report, including the increase in the District Council’s share of Council Tax in 2026/27 by 2.75% be approved.

2)  The General Fund Revenue indicative budget for 2027/28 and 2028/29 be noted.

3)  The General Fund Fees and Charges approved by Cabinet on 3 February 2026 be noted.

4)  The proposed General Fund Capital Programme for 2026/27 and planned financing as set out in section 3 of the report be approved.

5)  The remaining elements of the General Fund Capital Programme 2027/28 and 2028/29 be noted.

6)  The Special Expenses Revenue Budget for 2026/27 as summarised insection 4 of the report, including setting the Special Expense Band D Council Tax at the levels detailed in table 4 of the report be approved.

7)  The drawdown from reserves to fund the one-off budget proposals as detailed in the General Fund budget changes be approved.