Finance Draft Minutes - 11th December 2025
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE
HELD ON THURSDAY 11th DECEMBER 2025 at 7.00PM
IN THE PARISH ROOMS, HALL STREET, CROWLAND
Attendees: Cllr B Alcock (Chair) - Cllr G Searle, Cllr P Davis, Cllr J Boor, Cllr D Kempton, Cllr A Williams, Cllr C Elphee, Cllr P Stowe
Also in attendance: Becky Brothwell - Clerk/RFO and Tracey Kingston – Previous RFO
Meeting Started at 19:00
The meeting was opened by Chair, Councillor B Alcock, who welcomed all attendees.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
No apologies were received.
2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
No declarations were received.
3. TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved: The minutes of the meeting held on 28th May 2025 were a true record of proceedings.
4. FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 30TH NOVEMBER 2025
The Clerk/RFO reported that the Council’s financial position remains stable, though a small number of invoices may still be outstanding and will be processed once identified.
5. DRAFT BUDGET 2026/2027
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved: The Committee reviewed the draft budget for the next financial year, noting a proposed precept of £174,540.00, The overall increase of 15%, which is due to the unplanned £14,000 cost arising from the transfer of the CCTV budget from South Holland District Council to the Parish Council. Without this additional responsibility, the underlying increase would be approximately 7%. Members discussed the rise in CCTV costs following the transfer of responsibility from South Holland District Council, including an additional £14,000 required for the system. Planned allocations include a new grass‑cutting machine, essential tree works and ongoing maintenance. The petty cash reconciliation will be completed, and updates are required for income relating to electric vehicle charging and the Bowls Club. The Council’s insurance renewal is due at the end of the year, and reserves will continue to be built towards long‑term targets. To recommend the precept for 2026/2027 total of £174,540.00 to next Full Council Meeting on Monday 5th January 2026.
6. LONG-TERM RESERVES PLAN
Resolved: The plan was discussed and reviewed, and the proposed updates have been incorporated into the draft budget for 2026/2027. No further actions were identified at this stage.
7. ASSET REGISTER REVIEW
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved: The Council reviewed the Asset Register and noted several amendments: litter bins are to be added under Planning & Place; the Jubilee Bench, fencing and swing seat require checking and updating; the Portable Cabin is to be reclassified as a Toilet; the Keep Fit Equipment at Snowden location is to be reclassified under Amenities; a query was raised regarding the inclusion of the Gaitor under Farms & Gardens, the identification number for the Gaitor should be verified to ensure it corresponds with the latest machine recorded on the inventory list and the Parish Rooms / Portable Cabin are to be moved to Amenities. TK will review the Asset Register and update accordingly.
8. APPOINTMENT OF INTERNAL AUDITOR
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved: The Council considered the appointment of the Internal Auditor and agreed to continue using the LALC Internal Auditor for the 2025/2026 financial year. It was agreed that the list of outstanding issues requiring action will be incorporated, and that Tracey will be utilised where Clerk involvement is required, providing support to progress and resolve those matters for audit purposes.
9. ANY OTHER MATTERS TO BE INCLUDED ON A FUTURE AGENDA.
None received.
The meeting ended at 20:51