Decision details

That the budget assumptions outlined in paragraphs 3.11 to 3.16 in the report are agreed and updated during the budget process should better information become available.

That Cabinet acknowledges the draft response to the Welsh Government on the provisional settlement (Appendix 3).

That Cabinet approves that the consultation period and opportunity to present alternative proposals ends on 31st January 2018.

That the budget process (as outlined in paragraphs 3.6 onwards) is adopted including member budget scrutiny and consultation conducted with select Committees and consultation with JAG, schools budget forum and other relevant fora.

That Cabinet approves the release of the draft budget savings proposals for 2018/19 for consultation purposes.

That Cabinet agrees to continue to work on the areas required to balance the 2018/19 budget and Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP), through wider targeted activities that sit within the remit of Future Monmouthshire.

That Cabinet agrees to include the Future Monmouthshire budget of £200,000 as a base budget consideration from 2018/19 given the key role that Future Monmouthshire plays in facilitating a more sustainable and financially affordable future for Council activities.

To consider formal adoption of the Foundation Living wage as a financial planning assumption rather than Government Living wage. For 2018/19 the rates are £8.75 ph and £8.40 ph respectively. This would have a potential brought forward cost from 2019/20 pressures of £83.5k.

Cabinet agreed to remove Blue Badge and breakfast club saving aspects from proposals being consulted on.  Cabinet required 4.95% Council tax increase to be a revised financial planning assumption for 2018/19 (up by 1%), but retained 3.95% Council Tax increase for the 3 years thereafter.

Cabinet resolved to provide a second response to Welsh Government on the budget intentions recognising the Chancellor’s autumn statement.