Decision details

Approval of fees and charges for 2016/17 and consider budget proposals for 2016/17.

Matter for Decision

The report detailed the budget proposals relating to the City Centre and Public Places portfolio that are included in the Budget-Setting Report (BSR) 2016/17.

Decision of Executive Councillor for City Centre and Public Places

Review of Charges:

       i.          Approved the proposed charges for this portfolio’s services and facilities, as shown in Appendices A1-A2 to the Officer’s report.

Revenue:

     ii.          Considered the revenue budget proposals as shown in Appendix B.

Capital:

   iii.          Considered the capital budget proposals as shown in Appendix C.

   iv.          Agreed to adjust capital funding for item 2c (iii above).

Reason for the Decision

As set out in the Officer’s report.

Any Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

Not applicable.

Scrutiny Considerations

The Committee received a report from the Principal Accountant (Services). He stated there was a typographical error on P5 of the report which should read: Strategy and Resources – City Centre & Public Places Portfolio Revenue and Capital Budget Proposals for 2015/16 2016/17 to 2019/20.

Councillor O’Connell sought clarification regarding Parks and Open Space - Event Income (report P18). The Executive Councillor for City Centre & Public Places said figures were indicative. There were no confirmed locations for events, although the Beer Festival may be held on Jesus Green.

Councillor Austin sought clarification regarding the review of fees & charges - Bereavement Services (report P12). The Director of Environment said the charges were proposed to change by 5% to take into account changes in costs to deliver the service. This was in line with the strategy brought to Community Services Scrutiny Committee in 2015. The Council need to invest in the Service to maintain quality.

The Committee resolved by 5 votes to 0 to endorse the recommendations.

The Executive Councillor approved the recommendations.

Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Executive Councillor (and any Dispensations Granted)

No conflicts of interest were declared by the Executive Councillor.