Issue - meetings

This report advises the Conservators of income and expenditure in 2016/17 as at 30 September 2016 and seeks guidance on the preparation of the budget and precept for 2017/18. It also provides an updated Risk Register for 2016/17.

The Conservators received a report advising it of income and expenditure in 2016/17 as at 30 September 2016, and seeking guidance on the preparation of the budget and precept for 2017/18. An updated Risk Register for the Downs, for 2016/17 was also presented.

The Conservators noted that it was proposed to increase precept contributions by 2.3% in order to achieve a balanced budget in 2017/18. The Conservators were informed that there was a forecast £7,607 use of the working balance in the current year.

Following consideration, the Conservators agreed:

(1)          to note the mid-year income and expenditure position as at 30 September 2016;

(2)          to support the proposed 2.3% increase in precept contributions for 2017-18, for consideration at their meeting in January 2016;

(3)          to note the 2016/17 Risk Register for the Downs, subject to an amendment to the “Further Action/Mitigation action” for risk EWDC5 as follows:

“Advice being given by Legal & Democratic Services on Key issues.

Clarity on responsibility for the Hack Sand Track has been clarified and the Horse Race Betting Levy Board are responsible for the cost of repairs.”

(amendment highlighted in bold and underlined text above).