To consider performance for the first two quarters of 2015/16 and the projected budget outturn for the year.

The cabinet member for economy and corporate services introduced the performance report showing performance against the corporate plan.  The new style of reporting that had been developed included dashboard overviews and workforce figures.

In answer to a question from the group leader of Herefordshire Independents regarding the possibility of a short fall in business rate collection from general practitioners, the director of resources explained that localisation meant that there was a risk that the council could pick up appeals which included an element of backdating which would incur costs.

The group leader of It’s Our County had a number of questions which would be submitted in writing, but drew attention to a point regarding overspending in adults and wellbeing.  The director of resources explained that there were underspends, as shown in the report, in other parts of the budget that compensated.  The group leader also referred to overspending in children’s safeguarding and commented that the compensatory underspends there were not sufficient. 

The chairman of the general overview and scrutiny committee commented on the impact of residential care on budgets.

He also expressed thanks to the assistant director, safeguarding and early help, who was leaving the council. The leader echoed these thanks on behalf of the council.

RESOLVED

THAT:

(a)        Cabinet notes the council is currently projecting an overspend of £583k; and

(b)       performance for the first six months of 2015/16 is considered.