Issue - meetings

Presentation to be delivered by Chief Finance Officer

Lead Cabinet member: Councillor Stephen Holt

(Non-key decision):

To note the approach for the 2021/22 budget.

The Cabinet received a written presentation from the Chief Finance Officer on the latest draft budget position for 2021/22.

The presentation covered a recap of the impact of Covid-19 on the Council’s finances, the latest financial figures, update on continuing discussions with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), impact of the 2021 Spending Review, modification to Section 114 guidance for local authorities, targets for the Council’s Recovery and Reset programme and next steps for the authority.

Cabinet reinforced that 50% of the Council’s expenditure was paid for by income it generated and fees it charged. 30% of the Council’s expenditure was funded by the Council’s tourism and cultural offering, which had been significantly hit by Covid-19.

Thanks were conveyed to officers, the MHCLG, Local Government Association, Member of Parliament for Eastbourne and others that had offered support and advice during this difficult time.

Councillor Tutt shared a letter that had been written on behalf of the local business community to the Cabinet Office, that reinforced the precarious situation businesses were in and the potential negative knock on effect for the Council’s financial situation.

Cabinet would take advantage of available government grants and continue their commitment to carbon neutrality, looking further at eco-tourism opportunities.

Resolved (Non-key decision):

To note the priority-based budgeting approach for the 2021/22 budget.

Reason for decisions:

To progress the budget setting process for 2021/22.