Councillor Barrett introduced the report. 

The committee heard that effective scrutiny could add considerable value to how the Council made decisions on the allocation of resources. This had become increasingly important as the Council continued to set budgets against a background of tough economic conditions and severe funding cuts from Central Government.  The medium term financial planning process would need to address these continued financial challenges and develop a strategic approach to address funding gaps.

A motion was MOVED by Cllr Clark and SECONDED by Cllr Barrett to receive the recommendation in the report.

A vote was taken by a show of hands and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY that:

1. The feedback on the Proposed and Anticipated Savings outlined in para 4.4 be agreed and submitted to Finance and Resources Committee,

2. The Finance and Resources Committee be requested to provide further information within their future reports on how the funding gaps would be addressed,

3. The feedback on the Proposed Budget Investments outlined in paras 4.6 and 4.7 be agreed and submitted to Finance and Resources Committee,

4. The Budget Scrutiny work would commence in September in future years and start with a service review of existing budgets,

5. The proposed working balance level of £2.1m - £2.2m be supported; and

6. The Council Tax Financial Modelling would be presented to the Finance and Resources Committee for consideration.