Middlesbrough councillors will soon vote on the new budget. It focuses on growth. Rising officer costs and service concerns are under scrutiny.
Reporters inquired with all 46 councillors about the budget, seeking their opinions and voting plans. They aimed to understand councillors’ likes and dislikes. The budget vote is scheduled for Wednesday, February 19, following the mayor’s presentation on February 5.
Councillor Peter Gavigan’s support for the budget is expected. Labour Councillor John Kabuye is interested in youth and area care. Area care will receive a 20% budget increase next year, made possible by government funding.
MICA has voiced criticism regarding the rising costs of council services alongside perceived lower service quality. They highlighted resident dissatisfaction with bin collection changes. The council responded that these changes are cost-saving measures that contribute to balancing the budget.
MICA also questioned the increase in high-earning officers. The council reported a rise in staff earning over £50,000, from 107 to 216. MICA has requested an explanation, deeming the situation unacceptable given increased costs for residents.
Council data indicates that the number of staff earning over £50,000 was 163 in 2024, following 84 in 2022 and 87 in 2023. The number nearly doubled within a single year.
The council attributed the salary increase to nationally agreed pay awards rather than new hires. These awards are nationally agreed upon sums.
MICA also expressed concern over the children’s services budget, which has doubled in the last decade while persistently overspending. This year’s latest forecast, however, predicts no overspend.
MICA made note of the National Insurance (NI) increase’s £3 million cost to the council. While the government will contribute £1.3 million, the council remains responsible for covering £1.7 million.
The council will be covered for direct staff NI but must pay for commissioned staff, including groups like Everyone Active. The budget is currently balanced for the upcoming year.
The government allocated £502m to councils for NI as part of the Finance Settlement. However, the Local Government Association argues that this amount is insufficient. Nationally, NI increases could potentially cost £1.77 billion.
MICA did not disclose how its members intend to vote. Councillors also have the option to abstain, while other councillors had no reaction. With a Labour majority of 24 councillors, coupled with the mayor’s vote, the budget is likely to be approved.
