Blaenau Gwent Council is looking to engage with local people over savings proposals for its 2017/18 Budget.
You can have your say by completing an online survey or by attending one of four planned events taking place around the county borough this November. There will be information about how the Council is funded and details of specific savings proposals that are being put forward for people to comment on.
The Council received news of its financial settlement from Welsh Government and is facing a 0.5% reduction in its revenue support grant. This reduction contributes to an overall sum of £6 million worth of savings that need to be made.
The ‘Let’s Talk’ public engagement programme kicks off in Ebbw Vale on Friday, 18th November.
The drop-in events are:
· Friday, 18th November – 10am to 2pm, Ebbw Vale Market
· Thursday, 24th November – 10am to 2pm, Abertillery Market
· Friday, 25th November – 10am to 2pm, Tredegar Town Centre Precinct (Outside Home Bargains)
· Saturday, 26th November – 10am to 1pm, Brynmawr Market
There will also be the opportunity to complete an online survey from the 18th November.
The ‘Let’s Talk’ programme continues the Council’ commitment to be more proactive in engaging with local people about the financial challenges ahead and the difficult decisions that continue to be made over the funding and delivery of services. Representatives of the Council and Councillors will be on hand to answer questions.
The formal decision over savings will be made by councillors when they consider setting the Budget at a Full Council meeting in January.
David White, the Executive Member for Corporate Services said,
“As in previous years, we have to make tough decisions to balance the books. We are keen to find out what our residents priorities are, so that we can make decisions that reflect the needs of those who live and work in Blaenau Gwent. As always we will be working hard to protect essential services and look after those in our communities who most need our help.
“Participating in these events can be as easy as filling in the survey or attending one of the drop in events that are taking place all over the borough. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get involved and help shape the future of Blaenau Gwent.”
To access the information and survey online go to www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk and follow the link from the front page. The survey will be available from the 18th November.