Decision details

To consider the budget strategy for 2023-24

RESOLVED: that

1.       agreement be given to the budget principles on which the Budget Strategy Report will be based and the approach to meeting the Budget Reduction Requirement both in 2023/24 and across the period of the Medium Term Financial Plan.

2.      directorates work with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s), in consultation with the Corporate Director Resources and Cabinet Member for Finance, Modernisation and Performance to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative budget gap of £29 million for 2023/24 and £91 million across the period of the Medium Term Financial Plan.

3.      the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Modernisation and Performance, be delegated the authority to implement any saving proposal in advance of 2023/24 where no policy recommendation is required or where a policy decision has already been taken.

4.      it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the MTFP and that this will be reported to Members as appropriate. 

5.      it be proposed that Council agree that the Budget Timetable Framework set out in Appendix 2 be adopted, and that the work outlined is progressed with a view to informing budget preparation.

6.      consultation on the 2023/24 budget proposals take place when the detail of options is available in order to inform the preparation of the draft 2023/24 Budget.