Minute with recommendations and report attached.

The Council was then invited to consider the recommendation from the Policy and Resources Committee meeting of 13 February 2024, in respect of the procedure to be adopted for the budget debate at this extraordinary meeting of the Council.

On a motion by Councillor Paul Stuart, seconded by Councillor Jean Robinson, it was –

Resolved – That, for the duration of the extraordinary meeting of 26 February 2024 (Budget Council):

(a) the procedure attached as Appendix A be followed in respect of the meeting; and

(b) Council Standing Order 15.4 (timing of speeches) be suspended together with such other standing orders as may conflict with the Budget Council procedure or the Mayor’s administration of the meeting, in such a manner as the Mayor in his or her absolute discretion dictates, to ensure the objective of Council setting a lawful budget and council tax requirement prevails.

The Director of Law and Corporate Services presented the report on the assurance process in formulating the draft Council Budget and to recommend to Council a process for adoption at the Budget decision making meeting.

Resolved – that it be recommended to Council be recommended that, or the duration of the extraordinary meeting of 26th February 2024 (Budget Council):

(a) the procedure attached as Appendix A be followed in respect of the meeting; and

(b) Council Standing Order 15.4 (timing of speeches) be suspended together with such other standing orders as may conflict with the Budget Council procedure or the Mayor’s administration of the meeting, in such a manner as the Mayor in his or her absolute discretion dictates, to ensure the objective of Council setting a lawful budget and council tax requirement prevails.