Policing Precept 2021-22 Response from the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner
Matthew Ellis PCC
County Councillor Stephen Sweeney
Chairman Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Panel
Sent via email
10 February 2021
Dear Chairman
Response from the Police, Fire and Crime Panel to the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire’s Draft Budget and Precept 2021/22
Thank you for your response to my proposed budget and policing precept increase for 2021/22, following the Police and Crime Panel on January 1, 2021.
I note the comments that you have made following scrutiny of the budget proposal and that your support for the budget and precept increase is without any recommendations to me to consider matters further.
I believe that the finances raised from the precept increase, together with savings from current plans, will provide Staffordshire Police with the necessary resources to deliver an effective and efficient police service for the coming year. I am pleased that the Panel noted the challenging financial position and the uncertainty around future funding that exists currently.
I also have noted the concern from Members’ regarding the forecast debt position as detailed in the Treasury Management Strategy and Capital Programme which is forecast to increase into the medium term due to necessary investment in technology (mainly the nationally prescribed Emergency Services Network) and a local Operations Hub, which includes a new Firearms Range (subject to a full business case). The Staffordshire Commissioner’s Office will update the Panel on the development of these projects during the coming year.
The Chief Constable has provided me with the reassurances that I needed in making the precept proposal and asking the residents of Staffordshire to pay more for their police service.
I believe the 5.99% increase for 2021/22 will assist Staffordshire Police to better address the threats and risks and potential harm that are faced in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent during the budget year 2021/22 and beyond.
I thank you for your consideration.
Yours sincerely
Matthew Ellis
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue, Crime