Issue - meetings

A report from the Director of Finance is attached. (Key decision – reference number 4746)

(Report No.87)

(8.20 – 8.25 pm)

Councillor Mary Maguire (Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement) introduced the report of the Director of Finance (No.87) setting out an update on the progress of budget development for 2019/20 to 2022/23 and putting forward Phase 2 proposals for savings and income generation.

NOTED

1.            That this report presented phase two of the savings and income generation proposals following Cabinet consideration of phase one in July 2018. For the 2019/20 financial year the starting budget gap was £18m, as detailed in the report. The progress made to date and the further proposals coming forward were highlighted and discussed. Phase three of the proposals was due to be considered at the Cabinet meeting in December 2018.

2.            The budget consultation proposals as set out in section 5 of the report. The budget challenge process outlined in section 6 of the report was also noted and considered. Members acknowledged that this was a financially challenging period.

3.            The intention was to deliver a rigorous budget process which would seek to minimise the impact of savings as far as possible. The Council would continue to take a responsible approach to its financial management.

4.            Members highlighted a current campaign by the Local Government Association (LGA) regarding the nationally difficult financial situation being faced by councils.

5.            Councillor Caliskan (Leader of the Council) outlined the involvement of the Cabinet and the wider Labour Group in the budget process.

6.            A discussion took place regarding the continued need to lobby Central Government for sufficient funding, and it was noted that the Local Government Association (LGA) was continuing to lobby on behalf of local authorities. The budget pressures being faced in Enfield were mirrored in other councils, particularly in the provision of Children’s Services and Adult Social Care. The Council awaited the outcome of the Fair Funding Review and, the Government’s Autumn Statement.

7.            The proposals for income generation are as set out in the report. In considering potential income generation for the Council, the importance of accurate and realistic budget projections was highlighted - the estimates must be achievable and able to be delivered.

Alternative Options Considered: The Council operated a budget planning and consultation process during which a wide range of options were considered in detail.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed

1.         To note the progress made to date in the preparation of the 2019/20 budget.

2.         That the savings proposals of £4.9m and income generation proposals of £2.9m set out in Appendix A of the report be progressed.

3.         That the 2019/20 Budget Consultation proceeds in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance and Procurement.

Reason: To manage the 2019/20 financial planning process having regard to constraints in public spending.

(Key decision – reference number 4746)