Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Affairs.

The Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Affairs submitted a report which provided information on the Council’s financial position for the period up to June 2013 and projected the likely outturn at the end of 2013/2014.

                 The report included details of Prudential Indicators in accordance with CIPFA’s Prudential Code.

Questions and comments were invited and the following issues were raised:

·         In response to a question concerning the fact that the £400k saving had not yet been achieved in respect of waste management, it was reported that a report would be submitted to the next Cabinet meeting.

·         With regard to the current projected overspend, it was explained that historically the Quarter 1 figure had often resolved itself before the end of the year following remedial action. Councillor Smith explained that through the Start Chamber process, Cabinet Members and Senior Officers were constantly monitoring the budget position and taking swift action where necessary.

·         In response to concerns about the delay in savings from the Department of Communities and Neighbourhoods, the Cabinet Member stressed that these were delays due to consultations around staff restructures and expressed confidence that the savings would be realised.

                It was agreed:

                1. That the financial position of the Council as at 30 June 2013 be noted.

                2. That the s151 Officer’s assessment of the minimum level of balances be noted.

To consider a report of the Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Affairs.