Decision details

Councillor Cartman introduced the report, and the Director of Corporate Services summarised the council’s financial position after the first five months of 2021/22, drawing attention to key issues, known pressures and potential risks at this stage of the financial year.

Councillor Cartman thanked officers for a comprehensive and detailed report and recognised the dedication of officers across the council in addressing the Covid pressures and ensuring the council was not left financially exposed.  He referred to ongoing work to address financial pressures and challenges in the usual key areas and reassured members that a prudent approach was being taken in working towards a balanced budget. 

In discussing the report members raised the possibility of exploring whether the additional costs of the Weston Town Centre Enhancement Scheme as a result of unmapped utilities could be recovered from the utility companies, and to options for mitigating the shortfall in income from fees and charges as a direct result of the Covid pandemic.

Resolved:

(1) that the projected revenue and capital budget forecasts as detailed within the report be noted; and

(2)  that the amendments to the capital budgets as detailed within Appendix 7 of the report be approved.

Reasons for the decision:

As set out in the report and discussed above.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

As set out in the report and discussed above.