URL: https://stroud.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=236

Decision Maker: Environment Committee

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: To present to the committee the revised estimates for 2024/25 and original estimates for 2025/26.

Content: The Accountant advised that the report outlined where the budget had been revised for the current financial year and the proposed budget for next financial year. She went through the variances and adjustments for the budget which included increases to payroll at 2.25%, fees and charges (as listed at appendix B with further narrative) and contracts. Item 4 outlined three pressures to the budget which were identified as the Ubico contract, Planning Strategy and Building Control, however there had been increased income associated with the recyclate rate and garden waste subscribers. The following answers were provided to Members questions: ·   The Community Services Environment Manager advised there was no further additional allocation for litter put forward in the budget however he would liaise with Councillor Thomas on other potential budget options outside of Committee linked with street cleansing. The Chair, Councillor Turner, also advised subject to the settlement payout on the 19 December, there were potential funding opportunities linked to delivering the Council Plan objectives. ·   The Community Services Environment Manager explained that a provisional allocation figure had been received to Stroud District Council (SDC) for the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the Section 151 Officer was currently reviewing. Councillor Canning advised that the EPR was a provisional figure and caution should be taken when considering future budgets as it was subject to change. ·   The Chair Councillor Turner advised later in the civic year there would be scope to increase budgets if required in response to a question from Councillor Simkiss on national planning policy. Proposed by Councillor Dutton, seconded by Councillor Simkiss. Councillor Simkiss thanked the officer for the report and prior training. Councillor Dutton echoed her thanks. On being put to the vote, the Motion was carried unanimously.   RECOMMENDED to STRATEGY & RESOURCES a)     The revised Environment revenue budget for 2024/25 and original 2025/26 revenue budget are approved. b)     The Fees and Charges list as shown at Appendix B is approved.  

Date of Decision: December 5, 2024