To consider the report of the Accountancy Services Manager (enclosed).

DECISIONS

1.     That the latest forecast in respect of the 2024/25 establishment be accepted.

2.     That the proposed establishment budget for 2025/26 be approved.

3.     That additional resource requirement for 2025/26 as set out in paragraph 4.4 of the report, be approved.

Reason:

The cost of the establishment is a significant part of the council’s overall

budget and members are asked to consider and approve the budget for the

next financial year. The final establishment costs will be incorporated into

the General Fund budget for consideration in February 2025.

Considered – Report of the Environmental Services Manager.

Cllr. Les Phillimore arrived at the meeting during consideration of this item.

Other Options Considered:

Not to produce a separate report on establishment costs ahead of the main budget proposals. This option is not considered appropriate given that the  establishment budget constitutes such a significant proportion of core costs.