Decision details

The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an update on the projected impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Council’s revenue and capital budgets in the current year (2021/22) and future years, the current position of the Covid funding and an update on the latest discussions in respect of the financial flexibilities made available by the Scottish Government.

Decision

The Policy and Resources Committee –

1.    Approved that the funding uploaded into the 2021/22 budget for Covid related cost pressures that is no longer required (£2.117m) is removed from the 2021/22 budget and transferred into the unallocated Covid funding that is currently held within earmarked reserves.

2.    Approved that the cost pressures identified in relation to capital contract increases, £2.646m as noted in paragraph 3.5.2, is agreed to be added to the capital plan and funded from the £2.5m provision in addition to using a further £0.146m from the unallocated Covid funding in earmarked reserves.

3.    Noted that the current estimate of the 2022/23 Covid revenue cost pressures is £0.697m.

4.    Noted that it is highly likely that there will be further capital contract increases identified that relate to Covid that will require to be funded.

5.    Noted that there remains Scottish Government Covid Funding of £1.684m and £5.400m from the Loans Fund Principal  Repayment Holiday (if required) which would be ringfenced for Covid purposes as outlined in para 3.8.2 of the submitted report.

6.    Agreed to delegate decision in respect of the allocation of Covid Funding for the  potential winter opening of 6 additional toilet facilities (Ganavan, Crinan, Ulva, Kilchattan Bay, Glen Morag and Sandy Beach) for one year only, to the Executive Director with responsibility for Roads and Infrastructure in consultation with the Leader, Depute Leader and Leader of largest opposition group.

(Reference:  Report by Section 95 Officer dated 1 October 2021, submitted)