Agenda item

[The Cabinet Report of 26 July 2023 is attached, which provides an integrated finance and performance update against the Our City: Our Plan priorities, and the Medium Term Financial Strategy; and to provide the draft budget strategy for 2024-2025, with reference to current information about the in-year budget monitoring]. 

The Cabinet Member for Resources introduced the Performance and Budget Monitoring 2023-2024 and Budget Update 2023 -2024 report. The report provided an overview and update on the Budget and Performance.  It also outlined the Office for Local Government new initiative on data analysis. 

The Chief Accountant stated that it was the first report of the new financial year on finance, performance and the Strategic Risk Register.  It highlighted where the cost pressures were, which included Adults and Children’s social care, temporary accommodation and SEND Passenger transport.

A Member asked about the problems at Birmingham City Council given the Council’s relationship with them and partnership arrangements.  She asked what risks were emerging as a consequence of the financial problems faced by Birmingham City Council.  The Cabinet Member for Resources responded that as a result of the problems faced by Birmingham City Council, the Council’s Auditors had asked the Council to explore in depth whether the same issues faced by Birmingham, in particular on equal pay and single status, would be relevant to the Council.  The Council had responded to the Auditors to explain that they did not face the same difficulties.  The Council were continuing to monitor their own budget, given the situation faced by many Councils across the UK. 

A Member asked if the Council taxes which had been written off, whether that was a permanent position or if the Council would try and pursue the debt at a future stage.  The Chief Accountant responded that Cabinet had written off the debts indefinitely. 

A Member queried why there was only a single line regarding the Communications and Events Budget, when other areas had a much more detailed explanation of the budget position.  This caused him some concern. 

The Cabinet Member for Resources responded that she would ensure there was more detail in future reports.  The Director of Communications and Visit Experience offered to provide more information on the Communications and Events Budget if Members requested.    

The Vice-Chair asked what the total Communications and Events Budget was for the financial year.  The Chief Accountant responded it was £2.4 million for the Directorate. 

Resolved: That the points raised in the Performance and Budget Monitoring 2023-2024 and Budget Update 2023-2024 be noted.