In response to concerns from parishioners regarding the increase of this year’s precept, Members felt it was only right and proper for an explanation to be issued.
The 2011-2012 budget was agreed at the 1st Dec 2010 meeting which was open for parishioners to attend. Analysis of the 2010-2011 expenditure showed an overall increase in expenditure above what was originally predicted at budget setting time in 2009. Parish Council responsibilities have also increased since the precept was last set. For example:
- For 2010-2011, the budget for maintenance of the Recreation Ground had been set at £80. In reality, £1000 had been spent just on grass cutting.
- As there is more play equipment to insure which resulted in the premium doubling in the past year increasing from £411 to £1020. It looks likely that premium will be again higher for this year.
Parish Councils are also obliged by law to have emergency funds (known as ‘General Reserves’) equating to at least 6 months of expenditure set aside.
The Parish Council is entitled to apply for a refund from HMRC of VAT monies paid for purchases. This has been done for play items purchased from grant funding. However, grant funders have stipulated that it must be re-invested back into play and recreation only. A grant of £2000 has already been pledged to the football club from VAT monies received. The remaining VAT refund and additional VAT monies to be applied for will go to the construction of a BMX track plus two more items of kit for the playing field.
The Parish Council is keen to ensure that their procedures are transparent and that information is publically available. Our new website helps make information more accessible plus the Parish News and its Roving Reporter, Post Office noticeboard and Parish Hall noticeboards are valuable outlets for posting Parish Council information (when space allows) for which Council is most grateful.
All meetings of the Parish Council are open to the public and have a session at the start of every meeting where you can come and tell us of your concerns. St Dominick residents are very welcome at every meeting.
