To consider a joint report of the Executive Member for Corporate Services and Chief Finance Officer, which was also considered at the Executive meeting on 26 June 2017.

The Committee received a joint report of the Executive Member for Corporate Resources and the Chief Finance Officer informing Members of the 2016/17 draft outturn figures relating to both Revenue and Capital budgets, and the level of General and Service Reserves. The report also summarised the final unaudited position for Council Tax and Business Rates within the Collection Fund. Members were advised that the budget monitor reports were now bi-monthly, and work was ongoing on aligning the monitors with the Accounts & Audit Committee meetings.

Members discussed the current level of Business Rates appeals under the new check, challenge and appeal system adopted in April 2017. The Finance Team would be seeking evidence to ascertain whether the new system had affected the rate of appeals lodged.

The Head of Financial Management agreed to provide Members with information concerning the underspend in the Public Health and the Early Help Hub budgets.

RESOLVED:

a)    That the pre-audited revenue budget outturn be noted;

b)    That the levels of General & Service Reserves and Collection Fund balances and commitments are noted and confirmed;

c)    That the outturn position on the Capital Programme and Prudential Indicators be noted.

To consider a joint report of the Executive Member for Corporate Services and Chief Finance Officer, which has also been submitted to the Executive meeting on 26 June 2017.