To seek agreement for the forthcoming budget planning process and timetable.

The Cabinet Member (Corporate Services) presented the report of the Chief Financial Officer – Finance and Commercial Services.  During the discussion, the following points were made:

·         That engagement with the Localities should be undertaken in such a manner as to allow sufficient time for them to understand the scope of the process, and the breadth of the services that the Parishes would be in a position to take on. 

·         That lessons had been learnt from the operation of the Locality events that had taken place in 2011, and Parishes would already be considering issues such as the setting of their precepts for 2013.

·         That consultation with health partners on budget participation should also be made through the Health and Wellbeing Board.

Cabinet unanimously agreed the recommendations.

RESOLVED

That:

(a)          The overall timetable for budget setting be noted;

(b)          The proposed approach for budget planning be endorsed;

(c)          The Leader be authorised to determine the detailed programme of budget participation, following appropriate consultation with health partners; and

(d)          The Deputy Chief Executive be instructed, following completion of recommendation (c) above, to arrange publication of the consultation arrangements.