Council leader vows to deliver 'more for less'
Kevin McRoberts • Published 2 Feb 2012 08:00
2 Comments
Share this
THE new leader of Clackmannanshire Council is promising to deliver "more for less" as the SNP prepare to set out their budget for the coming year.
Councillor Gary Womersley says the new administration has gone through the council's finances with a fine tooth comb, and is confident that despite facing the first real-terms cut in grant funding, it can achieve more for the people of Clackmannanshire.
As previously confirmed following a deal between all Scottish local authorities and the Scottish Government, there will be no increase in council tax in 2012/13.
But despite that, coupled with the grant reduction, Councillor Womersley insists the SNP administration's budget will include a wide-range of initiatives, including:
*A better deal for the council's workforce
*More money for education to improve attainment levels
*Support for Ochil Leisure Enterprises in the running of the Alva pool and sports complex
*More money for improved maintenance of council assets and infrastructure - against a backdrop of a multi-million pound backlog of required repair and maintenance
*An increase in the council's reserves
*Below inflation increases in any charges for council services
*Additional resources to keep Clackmannanshire at the forefront in recycling.
Councillor Womersley told the Advertiser, "I am confident we will be able to deliver the most aspirational and outcome-focused budget in Clackmannanshire for several years.
"We've gone through every line of the budget. We've been critical of Labour over their financial incompetence, so I don't want anyone to be able to point the finger at us.
"I believe this is likely to be the most actively worked on budget by an administration, and we've done that to ensure it is not only aligned with our aims and ambitions, but that it delivers the best possible outcome for the people of Clackmannanshire."
The SNP says it has adopted a different way of setting the budget, using a 'zero-based approach'.
Councillor Womersley explained that previous budgets had been calculated on a 'roll-over' basis, where council services would be allocated funding based on what they received the previous year, plus or minus a certain percentage, depending on whether there was additional money available or savings had to be made.
This time, all services started from zero, and will have their funding allocated on the basis of what is required for the coming year.
By taking this approach, the council leader says the administration will make the best use of the resources it has available - and will be able to spend money where it is needed most.
Councillor Womersley added, "This SNP-led administration stands for good governance and strong financial stewardship. We are putting a steady hand on the rudder.
"This is not just about producing a budget for the short-term, it's about producing a budget which will serve the public well in the medium to long term. I am confident we are doing that.
"I am keen to show that for less money, we can achieve more for the people of Clackmannanshire."
This article appeared in Alloa & Hillfoots Advertiser 01 Feb 12
Have your say. Post a comment on this article.
-
Jaded
Unregistered User
Feb 7, 22:58
Report comment"..... a different way of setting the budget, using a 'zero-based approach'."
Sounds just like 1984 Political Speak!!!
Recommend?
Yes 0
No 0
-
Jaded
Unregistered User
Feb 7, 23:06
Report comment"I am keen to show that for less money, we can achieve more for the people of Clackmannanshire."
So, the age of miracles has not yet passed ??
Recommend? Yes 0
No 0
Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our News archives.
Alloa & Hillfoots Advertiser Poll
What game do you think was crucial to the Wasps winning the title?
