To set out proposal for balancing the 2018-19 budget and Council Tax.

The Finance and Assets Brief holder set out the revenue and capital budget proposals for the 2018/19 financial year including the level of council tax and reserves. The Chair also referred to a minute extract from Scrutiny & Performance Committee of 1 February 2018 (tabled at the meeting). 

The committee noted Scrutiny & Performance Committee’s comments regarding the proposed borough council tax increase of 2.02% and the impact on Band B and D properties.   The Chair advised members that if the Council set a zero increase to the council tax, it would not be able to invest in any future community projects.

The majority of the committee acknowledged the comments and concerns raised  by the members of Scrutiny & Performance Committee, but on balance were content with the proposed Council Tax increase as set out within the Budget Report.

In response to questions the Strategic Director confirmed that the Council would not be able to use the financial reserves in the manner proposed by Scrutiny members as this was against the controls of the council’s financial management process.   He further advised that based on the provisional finance settlement, the proposed budget would continue to allow the Council to continue to deliver the same level of services to the community.

Recommendation to Full Council

(i)        That the proposals for balancing the 2018/19 revenue budget set out in Appendix 1 be approved;

(ii)       That the 2018/19 Capital Programme in Appendix 2 be approved;

(iii)      That the formal resolutions in respect of the 2018/19 Budget and Council Tax including details of the council tax levels for Dorset County Council, Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner and Fire & Rescue Authority and Portland Town Council be included in the Budget Report to the 22 February Council meeting.