Residents across Cornwall are being urged to have their say on the council’s proposed draft budget for 2024/25.
On Wednesday, the authority’s Cabinet Committee approved the plans, which have been drawn up with the Council’s four key priorities at heart.
Given the current economic climate, balancing the budget has been challenging and further efficiencies and income generation measures have been required to help plug the budget gap.
To help fund services, the draft budget proposes a rise in Council Tax of 4.99%, including a 2% Adult Social Care precept for 2024/25. This means an increase of £1.73 per week on a Band D property.
Now the plans are subject to an eight-week public consultation, alongside scrutiny from within the council itself.
All information about the budget and an online survey is available on Let’s Talk Cornwall and can be found on https://letstalk.cornwall.gov.uk/budget-24-25
From next week residents can request a paper copy of the survey at their local library or information hub where staff will be happy to print out a copy. Alternatively, the survey is available as paper copy on request:
- Email address: haveyoursay@cornwall.gov.uk
- Phone number: 0300 123 1118
There is also a dedicated phone number and email for comments and queries – and people can write in per post as well to provide their feedback.
- Email address: haveyoursay@cornwall.gov.uk
- Phone number: 0300 123 1118
- Postal address: Cornwall Council Budget consultation, County Hall, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3AY
Cllr David Harris, deputy leader of Cornwall Council and portfolio holder for resources, said: “I am pleased we have managed to produce a balanced budget in quick time, as it allows for meaningful scrutiny of the plans.
“The proposal to raise council tax is not an easy one to make as we are fully aware of the impact that increasing Council Tax has on our residents, particularly during a cost-of-living crisis.
“It is really important for everyone to feel part of the process, and to know that their voice will be heard.
“I cannot promise that every idea will be adopted, but I can assure everyone that they will be given careful consideration.”