Drop-in sessions with chief

THE leader of Anglesey Council is planning to hold a series of drop-in sessions as part of the county’s battle to retain services amid financial constraints.

Last year, the authority was informed it would receive a 3.9% cut in funding from the Welsh Government for 2015/16.

As a result, the authority has launched a consultation on its spending priorities, planned service cuts and income generation proposals for the year ahead.

The bulk of savings are expected to be made by reducing bureaucracy, but non-statutory services will also be under the microscope.

Cllr Ieuan Williams said: “I’d like to thank those residents who have already taken part in our budget consultation.

“These drop-in sessions will form an important part of the consultation process, giving people a chance to air their views on our budget proposals and talk to me and other executive members about the issues which really matter to them.

“The funding cuts imposed mean we now have no choice but to prioritise the services we deliver.

“Public feedback, through the important consultation process, will therefore be vital as we look to balance a hugely difficult budget and still deliver the best possible services to the people of Anglesey.

“Most importantly, we’ll want to know how our proposals, together with a possible 5% council tax increase, would impact Anglesey and its residents.”

The budget proposals form part of a drive to address an estimated £15 million funding gap over the next three years.

To respond to the consultation online, visit anglesey.gov.uk/ budgetconsultation. The consultation will end on Friday, January 23. The executive committee’s final budget proposals will be presented to the full council on February 26.