Council tax in Central Beds will rise an average of 2.95% in April as a result of last night's vote. This wanton act ignores the promises made by predecessor bodies that the creation of the new Central Beds Council would bring savings in the first year.
Even before the budget discussion opened, the scene had been set by discussion of members' allowances, which we Lib Dems wanted cut in line with the recommendation of an independent panel. In the first recorded vote since the election last June, there were 11 votes for cutting the allowances (Lib Dems), one abstention (the independent Councillor) and the rest (Cons.) were in favour of maintaining them at current levels. The sound of snouts in trough was deafening.
While some cuts and efficiencies are undoubtedly being achieved, there is still much flab that needs addressing. I offer the example of £1.5 million 'contingency' in the Business Transformation budget for next year: a whopping slush fund undreamed of by any responsible business. Sure, one needs to play safe and build in some wriggle room, but do it on a risk assessed, line-by-budget-line basis, please.
And we also need to sweat the small stuff. This winter's road safety stunt of putting stakes with bunches of flowers attached, at the side of Central Beds' A-roads near accident spots, caused much bemusement until explanatory posters were erected. By the time the dead flowers were replaced with fresh bouquets, people were feeling annoyed that their well earned money had been spent in a publicity stunt.
Is something bugging you about what is or is not being done in the name of local Council services? Please share your thoughts.
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