Agenda item

The report details ‘Revenue and Capital Outturn 2016/17’ and was also considered by the Cabinet at their meeting on 19^th July 2017.

The Cabinet member for Finance and Efficiency, Councillor Charles Gerrish introduced the report. He introduced finance officers Donna Parham (Chief Finance Officer) and Gary Adams (Head of Corporate Finance).

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

Councillor Gerrish responded to a query about highway repairs from Councillor Barrett, he explained that there is no change in the road inspection programme and money has been received from the government in this financial year.

Councillor Sandry asked if the Cabinet is losing its grip on the budget, Councillor Gerrish explained some unexpected costs in that four care homes closed and in excess of 100 people had to be re homed. This cost more than was budgeted in this area.

Councillor Sandy asked about the overspend in catering services, Councillor Gerrish explained that the Meals on Wheels service is currently being re-drawn and there has been a proposed increase in the charges for school meals but as academies opt out, there is a decrease in economies of scale.

Councillor Sandry asked about Alice Park skate park, Councillor Gerrish explained that there may be a decision on this in the next couple of months. Regarding the Gypsy and Traveller sites, Councillor Gerrish explained that there may be a capacity issue with the planning department.

Councillor O’Brien asked why the overspend on care home closures and children’s services was not foreseen. Councillor Gerrish explained that he has monthly meetings with his officers. He stated that the 151 team did get short notice on this and there has been an internal investigation and he felt the answer was understandable. The Strategic Director explained that this area of the budget is under intense pressure and is a complicated budget to run, a close eye is being kept on this and there will be a further report in October.

Councillor Dando asked if the budget is adequate going forwards considering a chunk of the reserves have been used and if there is a loss regarding business rates. The Cabinet member explained that the reserve is for unexpected pressures. The Cabinet member also explained that some supermarkets had appealed regarding business rates and won so business rates are reduced, this was unexpected but a one off.

Regarding Hospital Trusts, the Cabinet Member explained that the LGA has taken up the issue of whether they should be treated as charities.

There was some discussion about student housing. Councillor Sandry stated that every planning application for an HMO is an act of self-harm by the Council.