Issue - meetings

To receive a Budget Statement from the Leader of the Council, to consider the following reports of the Section 151 Officer (copies enclosed) and to determine the level of Council Tax.

Members’ attention is drawn to the following Procedure Rules:

·                  Voting – Procedure Rule 13(5) set outs the requirement for any vote taken at a budget decision meeting (as defined by the Local Government Finance Act 1992) to be recorded in the Minutes.

·                  Budget Speech – Procedure Rule 1(13)(a) sets out the time limits in relation to the budget speech and (b) details the requirements for making alternative proposal or amendment as part of the Budget and Council Tax setting.

The Council considered the reports of the Director of Finance, on the recommendations of the Strategy and Resources Committee at its meeting on 29 January 2026 relating to the revenue budget and the proposed level of Council for 2026 / 27.

The Leader of the Council made a budget speech (attached at APPENDIX 1 to these Minutes), during which he thanked the Chief Finance Officer and his team for their hard work alongside the Finance Working Group. He advised Members that the proposed budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) provided a financial framework and strategic plan for the Council, supporting its priorities and ensuring a long-term legacy was provided for the District. The Leader confirmed that the Council had the financial resources and dedicated workforce to meet the challenges ahead. He urged Members to endorse the proposed budget and MTFS to continue the vital work of serving the community and together, continue to deliver excellence for the Maldon District now and into the future.

The Leader of the Council then proposed that the recommendations set out in the reports at Agenda Items 9a – 9d be agreed. This proposal was duly seconded.

In accordance with Procedure Rule 1(13)a, each of the Opposition Leaders responded to the budget speech.

Councillor J Driver, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, thanked the Leader of the Council for sharing his budget speech in advance and acknowledged the collaborative and constructive culture that had developed within Maldon District Council. He noted the thorough work of the Finance Member Working Group and officers in producing a robust and transparent budget. It was highlighted that the budget was not only technically balanced but was also considered responsible, protecting essential services, ensuring value for money, and enabling targeted investment through prudent borrowing to support projects across the district. Councillor Driver emphasised the importance of local councils in strengthening communities and called for fairer long-term funding settlements, as well as a strong Maldon voice in the transition to a unitary authority, particularly regarding key infrastructure such as health, education and medical services. He concluded by stating that the budget reflected the Liberal Democrats’ commitment to constructive, positive change and encouraged the Council to carry forward the best of Maldon into the future.

Councillor S J Morgan, Leader of the Conservative Group, thanked the Leader of the Council for presenting the budget and acknowledged the collaborative work undertaken through the Finance Member Working Group. He noted that officers had provided clear guidance throughout the process and commented that this was the third budget he had experienced, each demonstrating continued improvement. Councillor Morgan highlighted the strengths of the district, including its valued services and strong waste contract, while recognising the challenges ahead as the move toward unitary authorities approached. He stressed the importance of leaving Maldon in a strong position and maintaining its unique character and confirmed that the Conservative Group would be supporting the budget.

Councillor W Stamp, Deputy Leader of the District Support Group (DSG) spoke on behalf of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 11