Agenda and minutes

To approve and sign as a correct record the Minutes of the meetings held on 12^th November, 2020 and to deal with any matters arising.

RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 12^th November, 2020 be approved and signed as a correct record.

(a)  Budget Matters

The Committee considered the briefing paper and Cabinet report of the Cabinet Member for Finance and Income Generation detailing an update on budget proposals for 2021/22 (including COVID), medium term financial strategy, potential savings and capital programme. 

Councillor Barnes-Andrews, Cabinet Member for Finance and Income Generation was in attendance and with the consent of the Chair addressed the meeting. 

The Committee discussed the funding gap forecast for 2021/22, how the resulting pressures were being realised and the steps taken to mitigate the impact of COVID 19 whilst recognising that some pressures would change as a result of the impending central Government settlement of spending.

It was noted that the Administration were expecting to bring forward Budget decisions as they were required throughout the year and that the Opposition would be invited to join briefings to ensure transparency as the financial situation was kept under review. 

RESOLVED:

(i)  That, when Council was reviewing office accommodation requirements, reflecting changes to working practices, consideration was given to the potential impact of any proposals on the surrounding businesses, particularly the hospitality sector.

(ii)  That, to increase the response to the budget consultation, consideration was given to randomly selecting roads in each ward and writing to each household inviting them to engage in the consultation.

(b)  Clean Growth Fund

The Committee considered the briefing paper of the Cabinet Member for Green City and Place detailing phase 1 approval to spend on the Clean Growth Fund. 

Councillor Leggett, Cabinet Member for Green City and Place was in attendance and with the consent of the Chair addressed the meeting. 

RESOLVED:

(i)  That clarification was provided to the Committee on the proposed timings with regards to the developing Housing Asset Strategy; and

(ii)  Reflecting the technical nature of the reports, consideration was given to how future iterations could be more accessible for members of the public and elected members.

The Committee noted the report of the Service Director – Legal and Business Operations enabling the Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee to monitor and track progress on recommendations made to the Executive at previous meetings.