To recommend the following to Council (at its Budget Meeting on 7 February 2024):
1. That the General Fund Budget for 2024/25 as summarised in Appendix 1, incorporating the budget variations included at Appendix 2, be approved.
2. That a 2.99% increase in Guildford Council’s Band D Council Tax Charge for 2024/25, be approved with resultant increases to the other council tax bands.
3. That the Council’s existing Local Council Tax Support Scheme, with uprating as set out in Appendix 6 and the £40,000 discretionary hardship fund that runs alongside it, be continued.
4. That, from 1 April 2025, the Council varies its determination of 26 February 2019 under Section 11B of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, so that the long-term empty dwelling levy starts after a property has been empty and unfurnished for one year.
5. That, from 1 April 2025, the Council will charge a premium (levy) of 100% on periodically used dwellings as defined by section 11C of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.
6. That the schedule of Fees and Charges, as set out in Appendix 3 to this report, be approved.
7. That the use of the 2023-24 underspend as set out in paragraph 8.5 of this report, be approved.
Reason(s):
1. The General Fund Budget is a major decision for the Council and setting a balanced budget is a statutory requirement.
2. Scrutiny of these MTFP and Budget proposals demonstrate transparency and good governance.
3. The Council has been well positioned to respond to these challenges and whilst the latest MTFP for the subsequent years ending 2026/27 continues to project future financial pressures, and opportunities, the Council is able to take action to ensure sufficient funding is in place to deliver and maintain services.
Other options considered and rejected by the Executive:
None.
Details of any conflict of interest declared by the Leader or lead councillors and any dispensation granted:
None.