Issue - meetings

This report covers this Committees financial position over the medium term (2024 – 2027) as at Period 6 (end of September).

The Period 6 comprehensive Budget Management report has already been presented to the Policy & Resources Committee at its meeting on 11 November 2024 which sought approval to a change in the Council’s 2024 - 2027 medium-term financial plan.

Recommendation

That:

i)        Members note and comment on the contents of the report.

The Finance Business Partner presented the report which had already been to Policy & Resources Committee and Full Council in December.

There were some concerned raised regarding the recent variance of £35,000 in Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) attributed to changes in the parking enforcement plan. While acknowledging the positive financial outcome, Members expressed the need for clarity on the specifics of the deployment plan changes, how to amend it in the future, and the process for reporting on the success of these changes. Officers responded by explaining that the deployment planning is an internal mechanism that is regularly reviewed and highlighted the challenges faced in recruitment that have affected enforcement. Officers also mentioned that limited responses were received regarding enforcement concerns, particularly about out of hours enforcement, but noted that discussions with Hertsmere are ongoing to address these issues and potential funding for additional enforcement hours.

Members pointed out that despite stable revenue, the projected shortfall against the budget is around £50,000. They emphasised the need for a review of the trade waste offering due to the implications of business choosing alternative providers, which could lead to increased traffic and waste management issues. Officers acknowledged the fluctuating nature of the trade waste market, driven by new recycling regulations, and suggested that a detailed report on the service should be prepared after the upcoming changes are implemented.

Members expressed frustration regarding the timing of receiving the budget monitoring period 6 report in January for the period ending in September. They emphasised that receiving a report after it has been to Policy & Resources Committee and Full Council, hampers proper scrutiny. Officers pointed out that similar concerns were raised the previous year, highlighting that the issue is still ongoing. It was suggested that organising additional committee meetings will address this issue more promptly.

In response to a request on tracking and reporting of food waste management, officers offered to circulate an annual report which details the collection, processing and transformation of food waste.

RESOLVED:

That:

i)        Members note and comment on the contents of the report.