Decision details

The Chief Officer (Financial Services) submitted a report which provided an update on the financial health of the Authority in respect of both the General Fund revenue budget and the Housing Revenue Account, as at month 4 (July) of the financial year.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board received further information regarding the current budget position of the refuse collection service, and the reasons for that position.

Also in response to a Member’s enquiry, the Board received an update on the work which continued around ensuring the Council was ‘energy secure’ moving forward, with specific reference being made to the continued roll out of the District Heating scheme in the city. Members highlighted that this was an area of work which was particularly significant at present, given the considerable price increases being experienced in gas and electricity.

With regard to the collection of food waste and the associated anaerobic digestion process, Members received an update regarding national developments in this area which would continue to be monitored.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the projected financial position of the Authority, as at Month 4 of the financial year, be noted, with the projected impact of COVID-19 on that position also being noted;

(b)  That for 2021/22, it be noted that the Authority is forecasting an overspend of £0.4m;

(c)  That it be noted that the position as detailed within the submitted report does not reflect the potential effects of any further local or national lockdown arrangements on the financial projections, or any potential additional costs arising from the current 2021/22 pay negotiations.