District council seeks views on budget proposals (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

District council seeks views on budget proposals

7:40am Monday 7th January 2013 in News

WYRE Forest residents are invited to give their views on the district council’s budget proposals for the next financial year.

Wyre Forest District Council is planning to freeze council tax for a third year running as well as spending £500,000 less than last year.

Leader John Campion said: ”The Government is reducing the amount of money it gives to us to provide local services by 23.25 per cent over the next two years.

“However, demand continues to grow for many of our services, often as a direct result of the wider economy. This means there is less money available to provide these services in the future.

“It is recognised that the district is in need of an economic boost and therefore the proposals include £500,000 to further enhance the £1 million provided last year to support local growth.

“The council also needs to reduce spending to ensure that it remains financially sustainable. Within the budget, there are proposals for increasing efficiency and some reductions in service.”

The proposed net budget for 2013-14 is £12.3 million, a reduction of £470,000 or 3.7 per cent compared to the current financial year.

This is based on an estimated reduction in the grant that the council receives from government of £486,000.

Conservative councillor Nathan Desmond, cabinet member for resources and transformation, said: “Such a large reduction means we need to consider changes in the way we deliver services.

“In some cases we will need to carefully consider whether we can provide a particular service at all. We would like your help in making these important decisions.”

The detailed proposals and questionnaire are available a wyreforestdc.gov.uk. The consultation closes on Friday, February 8.