URL: https://democracy.adur-worthing.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1139

Decision Maker: Joint Strategic Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: Before the Committee was a report by the Director for Sustainability and Resources, copies of which had been circulated to all Members and a copy of which is attached to the signed copy of these minutes as Item 9.   The report presented an update on the budget setting process for 25/26 for both councils as well as updating on the progress of the implementation of the new financial strategy.   Progress on the new strategy was progressing well and was showing mid-term benefits, the short term budget pressures caused by external factors were considerable. As a result neither council was as yet able to show a balanced budget and the report showed the steps being taken to achieve this.   The Local Government Finance Policy Statement indicated a significant change to the approach to the settlement process and as such a likely material change to the budget position. The government had committed additional funding to local authorities, however the allocation across individual councils would not be visible until the provisional settlement. This is suggested by the focus on housing needs which was the main driver of the challenges in both Councils’ position. The statement was currently being reviewed and will be reflected in the next budget update alongside the updated funding levels for both councils.   Despite this, and despite the considerable work being done to redesign the organisation and implement a more resilient and sustainable financial strategy, it was clear that it was unlikely to provide the funding required to close the significant budget gap in Worthing and so the proposed route for requesting exceptional funding support which is outlined in the policy statement was also welcome. Members were being recommended to request the Chief Executive formally write to the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to request this support for Worthing.   Decision:   1.    That the contents of the report including the working 5 year forecasts be noted as at appendix 1   2.    That the Chief Executive writes to MHCLG in order to request exceptional financial support for Worthing in order to get the help needed to balance the budget during this period while the new financial strategy is being implemented     Call In: The call-in deadline for decisions will be 5.00pm on 20 December 2024  

Date of Decision: December 10, 2024