As we all know, there have been devastating cuts to local government funding since austerity started in 2007/08, and during that time you have given us your thoughts on our proposals for savings.
This year we are asking you just one question – what do you think we should do?
While there is still some uncertainty around next year’s budget, with Welsh Government providing more information towards the end of December, we know that the need to make difficult decisions will continue and that these will involve making more cuts.
From November 30 to December 13, you will be able to let us know what you think in four different ways:
- Complete the survey – either online or on paper. If you would like a paper copy of the survey please email us with your contact details to request this at telluswhatyouthink@wrexham.gov.uk or telephone 01978 292000.
- Attend the virtual public zoom session on Monday, December 7 2020, 5pm-6pm (register your interest at modernwaysofworking@wrexham.gov.uk by Thursday, December 3. Please let us know your name, and whether you are representing any group or organisation).
- You could also write to us at ‘Tell Us What You Think’, 3rd Floor Annex. The Guildhall, Wrexham LL11 1AY.
- Or email us at telluswhatyouthink@wrexham.gov.uk (please mark your correspondence ‘Difficult Decisions’)
Here are a few points to think of when putting your ideas together:
• We legally have to provide some services such as social care for adults and children, and schools/education
• There are costs that we have to pay, such as for waste disposal or housing benefits
• Efficiencies can be made to these areas, but the service must still be provided
• Many of the cuts will come from other discretionary areas
• We also need to consider ways to raise income and sources of income, such a Council Tax levels.
Other suggestions are, of course, welcome – the consultation will cover every item on the list of savings we have to make, but those are they areas where we have to focus.
Cllr Mark Pritchard, Leader of the Council, said: “In Wrexham, our medium term financial plan indicates a shortfall of approximately £18 million for the period 2021-24. This is in addition to the £11 million already saved over the last three years (including the current financial year). Over the period since the start of austerity the Council have made cuts and efficiency savings of over £64m. We are asking you to let us know how you think these savings can be made. No decisions have been made – we need to hear what you have to say before we can make them.”
Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for People – Communities, Partnerships Public Protection and Community Safety, said “Once again, there are difficult decisions that have to be made and your suggestions will play an important part in how we plan to make the necessary cuts to our budget. Every Wrexham resident could be affected by any proposed changes so it’s vital that as many people as possible take part in this consultation.”
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