Council approves budget despite financial challenges, raising council tax to the maximum allowed percentage.
Kendrick expressed pride in the budget’s stability. She contrasted it with other councils’ cuts, noting that some have closed pools and centers.
The council faced financial problems this year. Inflation and rising employer costs increased expenses. National Insurance alone cost £427k, with the government compensating only £100k. Reserves will cover the remaining cost. Increased council tax revenue offsets reduced government grants. The grants decreased by 10%, representing a cut in central funding.
Mole Valley uses over £300k from reserves to address a budget deficit. An officer warned about needed savings, highlighting the risk to maintaining services. General fees and charges are increasing by 3%, although some may be higher or lower.
The council hopes to save £136k. A new 1.5-hour parking option will be available, anticipating £9k extra revenue. Other parking charges increased with inflation.
The council aims to save over £1 million through cuts and streamlining. Some criticized this as unnecessary, questioning the £333k allocated for communications. Councillor Sevenoaks called the budget reckless, citing pet projects and financial mismanagement. Dorking Halls received £472k, while parks seemed less prioritized.
Joanna Slater criticized the park maintenance budget. Only £30k is dedicated to parks this year, while the full parks budget is £531,000. She described broken playground equipment.
A 10% workforce reduction will occur over three years, saving £466k in 2025/26. Mole Valley will restructure and delete vacant positions. Other savings involve recycling contract changes. They will restructure software systems, and sharing finances with Spelthorne will save £45k.
One council member questioned the opposition’s budget, stating spending phantom funds is simple. Others defended the communications budget. Councillor Weller said communication is essential, citing local government changes and devolution.