Issue - meetings

Peter Stuart, Head of Corporate Resources introduced the report which sets out the service and financial context within which the authority will operate over the next two years and provides guidelines for developing the Corporate Plan and Budget for 2020/21. He noted that the outlook for local government funding is uncertain as the political situation is unsettled. He highlighted that the Fair Funding review is likely to be delayed to next year and the Council Tax increase is now likely to be a maximum of £5 or 2% (whichever is higher). He noted that recycling credits could reduce for all local authorities in the County due to West Sussex County Council’s Budget cuts.

The Leader commented that the Council would be in a good position without the impact of reduced funding from the County Council. The Council is in a strong financial position, providing good quality services and value for money for the residents. He noted it was important to start work early on how the Council can protect services and reduce the impact of changing budgets at West Sussex County Council.

The Cabinet Member for Community commended the Council’s policy to provide temporary accommodation within the District by purchasing properties. He welcomed the success to the project which has enabled families to stay within their local communities and support networks. He noted the difference between homelessness and rough sleeping, and was pleased to see that it was being highlighted.

The Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning noted that it was good that the Council were in a position to improve services for homeless families, especially with a project as ambitious as the provision of temporary accommodation. He also noted that the Council needed the Development Plan Reserve to fund and maintain the District Plan, and further funding may be necessary in the future. With regards to issues with the Pension Fund the triennial review is underway, and he noted that if contributions are lowered it can quickly reduce the value of the pension fund.

The Cabinet Member for Customer Services confirmed her agreement of maintaining funding for the Development Plan Reserve. She asked if there were any implications on the 3% increase for Council Tax at the County Council.

The Head of Corporate Resources advised that the County Council can increase Council Tax by 2% and then an additional 2% precept can be added for Adult and Social Care provision.

The Cabinet Member for Economic Growth advised that the Council needed to invest in order to make savings.

The Leader took the Cabinet to recommendations which were agreed unanimously.

RESOLVED

Cabinet recommended to:

(i) endorse the guidelines set out within this report and use these principles in preparing the 2020/21 Corporate Plan and Budget;

(ii) reserve its decision on Council Tax levels until after the Spending Review.