Agenda item

To receive and consider the report of the R.F.O concerning the financial position of items under the remit of this Committee.

The Committee received and considered the report of the Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) concerning the financial position of items under the remit of the Committee.

Members noted that expenditure remained broadly in line with expectations for this stage of the financial year and considered matters that may require inclusion within the forthcoming budget-setting process.

Members considered future infrastructure requirements including bus shelters, grit bins and street furniture. A Member raised the issue of future maintenance responsibilities arising from the High Street improvement works and emphasised that any future budget provision should relate to ongoing maintenance rather than capital replacement or enhancement works.

Members were reminded that Oxfordshire County Council would be expected to provide an appropriate commuted sum to support future maintenance when responsibility for street furniture was transferred to the Town Council. It was also noted that Oxfordshire County Council should continue to bear full responsibility for delivering and funding the proposed improvement scheme.

Members also discussed the annual provision for maintenance of the Church Clock and noted that this should continue within future budgets. It was further noted that any repair project would be considered separately through the work of the Project Officer.

In addition, Members discussed the RAF’s forthcoming 50th Anniversary of the Freedom of Witney in 2027 and noted that provision may be required within future budgets to support commemorative activities associated with RAF Brize Norton. A budget of £750 was unanimously agreed to support the facilitation and refreshments for the celebrations.

Recommended:

1. That, the report be noted and;
2. That, the management accounts for the period 1 April to 31 July 2026 be approved and;
3. That, a budget of £750 be considered within the 2027/28 budget process for the RAF 50th Anniversary of the Freedom of Witney.