RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL: That it:
(1) Notes the position on the Collection Fund and how it will be funded.
(2) Notes the position relating to the General Fund balance and that due to the risks identified a minimum balance of £3.5 million is recommended.
(3) Notes the Chief Finance Officer’s section 25 report (Appendix D) which provides a commentary on the risks and reliability of estimates contained in the budget.
(4) Approves the revenue savings and investments as detailed in Appendix B to be amended.
(5) Approves the capital programme as detailed in Appendix C.
(6) Approves a net expenditure budget of £27.323m, as detailed in Appendix E with amount and detail to be amended.
(7) Approves a Council Tax increase of 2.99%, which is in line with the provisions in the Medium Term Financial Strategy.
(8) Approves bringing forward the capital budget for pool covers at the outdoor pools to 2025/26.
(9) Notes that a Council Tax premium on Second Homes will be implemented from 1st April 2026, which is adopting the decision taken by Council on 29 February 2024
REASON FOR RECOMMENDATION: To ensure that all relevant factors are considered in arriving at a budget (revenue and capital) and Council Tax level for 2026/27. To ensure that the budget is aligned to Council priorities for 2024-28 as set out in the Council Plan.