Issue - meetings

The Cabinet Member for Resources, Councillor Mark Elliott, introduced the report and explained that it covered items within this Panel’s remit. He explained that the full budget is being worked on but there is an unusual level of uncertainty particularly around mitigation around National Insurance contributions. He stated that the hard figures will be published in early February.

Panel members made the following points and asked the following questions:

Councillor Blackburn stated that the report was a pale reflection on what was brought to scrutiny previously. Councillor Moss agreed that a fuller picture had been given in previous years. The Cabinet Member stated that the Executive Director had flagged up that full budget papers could not be produced for this meeting. Councillor Moss stated that in 2022/23 the full budget papers came to this Panel. The Cabinet Member stated that he was happy to support this in the future provided the deadlines can be met.

Councillor Simon stated that the Panel have been assured that a balanced budget it achievable and the report represents about the right amount of information for early January.  He stated that it would have been helpful to have more on the capital side. He added that focus on the detail of the relevant portfolios is the best use of the Panel’s time today.

Councillor Halsall asked about Council Tax rises. The Cabinet Member stated that, while it will rise, BANES still remains 4^th lowest in terms of Council Tax.

In response to a query on telephony from Councillor Simon, the Cabinet Member explained that it would be an ongoing cost as it is a service not a purchase.

Councillor Simon asked about the Being Our Best (BOB) programme. The Chief Executive, Will Godfrey explained the programme and that details would be brought to the Employment Committee on 14^th February 2025. There is a meeting with Trade Unions tomorrow.

Councillor MacFie asked where the change in Business Rates had come from. The officer explained that this related to the Business Rates Pool and a change in allocations. In response to a query from Councillor Simon, the officer explained that there is a concern that the Government are moving towards a deprivation/needs-based allocation. The Cabinet Member explained that this was another factor in the theme of uncertainty, there is some extra money in the system this year but we do not have the information to plan ahead and we need more clarify from Government regarding a multiyear settlement. Councillor Moss stated that, at the LGA Conference, the Deputy Prime Minister indicated a move towards multi year settlements from next year. The Cabinet Member stated that he was pleased to hear this.

Councillor Halsall mentioned reference to AI in the press and asked for assurance that this would be used to improve our service and that members are trained. The Cabinet Member supported this. The Chief Executive stated that it was early days but he could see the benefits of this and the Council wide  ...  view the full minutes text for item 121