Decision Maker: Cabinet
Decision status: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)
Is Key decision?: Yes
Is subject to call in?: Yes
The purpose of this report is to consider the
recommendation to the County Council to approve the revenue budget,
precept and council tax for 2023/24. It also provides a further
update to Cabinet on the financial position for the County Council
in 2022/23 and the medium term financial position to
2025/26.
Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Corporate Operations regarding proposals for the revenue budget and precept for 2023/24, and an update on the financial position for 2022/23.
The Chairman noted that the financial outlook was challenging with growth and inflation pressures at unprecedented levels. He was encouraged that Government had listened and responded positively to the joint letter from Hampshire and Kent County Council and the additional funding was welcomed. The County Council continued to deliver services to its most vulnerable residents as well as universal services for all and the sound financial management of the County Council meant it was in a stronger position than many others. An increase in Council tax of 4.99% was recommended and although Cabinet was mindful of the impact on households there was no choice but to make the increase, which was below the overall rate of inflation, as set out in the report.
Cabinet noted the growth in social care and children’s safeguarding and the pioneering work around early intervention to enable better outcomes for vulnerable people. It was noted the pioneering work was only possible if there was sufficient funds from Government for investment.
The recommendations in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.
Report author: Rob Carr
Publication date: 07/02/2023
Date of decision: 07/02/2023
Decided at meeting: 07/02/2023 - Cabinet
Date comes into force if not called in: 15/02/2023
Call-in deadline date: 14/02/2023
Accompanying Documents: