Issue - meetings

Members gave consideration to a report which presented the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) for 2026/27 onwards, alongside the 2026/27 Budget and the Capital Programme from 2026/27 to 2031/32.

Councillor Bierley, as Chairman of the Corporate Policy and Resources Committee presented the report,  advising the MTFPs purpose was  to set a robust overall framework for the Council’s Financial Strategy and spending plans over the next five years in support of delivering the Corporate Plan.

The report set out the revised financial plans within the financial analysis for changes in Government Funding, the economic environment, local engagement and the priorities of the Council. The Plan reflected revisions to previous estimates and covered the period 2026/27 to 2030/31.

A balanced budget for 2026/27 was proposed, without the requirement to support it with funds from the general fund balance. The final local government finance settlement had been delivered in February and had set funding allocations for the next three years. This had encompassed a reset of Business Rates and a wider review of local government funding.

For 2026/27 the West Lindsey part of Council Tax was proposed to increase by 2.97% which equated to a rise of £7.38p per week for a band D property.  The 2026/27 Budget totalled £21.414m, was fully funded and represented a balanced budget within the requirements. 

Councillor Bierley moved the recommendations before handing over to the Leader who seconded the recommendations before making the following budget speech.

“On behalf of the West Lindsey Administration Group, I am delighted to second the recommendations in this paper.

Building on what Councillor Bierley has outlined, it is a busy time for the Council at the moment and this budget provides us with a stable base to continue to deliver award winning and highly efficient services whilst also working on a number of initiatives.

We are currently rolling out the food waste service which is the biggest new service the Council has delivered in many years and thanks go to not only the waste team but also teams across the Council in helping to roll out this service to residents.

The future of the former RAF Scampton site will hopefully be resolved during this year with the Council hoping to successfully bid for the site and together with Scampton Holdings deliver a once in a generation regeneration scheme. This will regenerate the site and create jobs and bring visitors to the area in what will be a landmark scheme for the area.

Part of Gainsborough has been awarded Pride in Place funding which will be up to £20m over a ten year period. The Council will look to work with the Pride in Place neighbourhood board when it is established to help to deliver long term improvements that matter to local people.

With Local Government Reorganisation on the horizon work has already started within the Council on ensuring we are in best shape we can be whilst also ensuring residents’ voices are heard when shaping any new authority.

With the new Corporate Plan  ...  view the full minutes text for item 91