Budget talks went online last night as a council began hearing people’s views on its future spending.
A budget round table debate was published live online as Calderdale Council began to draw up its proposed budget for 2014/15 and further ahead.
Dubbed #AmbitionCalderdale, the project saw council leaders, councillors and the community discuss how money received by local councils will be divided and used to provide services.
While talks were going on, people sent in comments and tweets via social media and the council’s website.
Most local authorities in the country, including Calderdale and Kirklees, are having to wrestle with massive budget cuts.
Local councillors have blamed the Government for slashing the grants handed out to councils, particularly in the north of England.
Calderdale has to cut its spending by many millions of pounds.
Clr Tim Swift, Labour leader of the council, said: “It’s great that people can get involved and engage in the event on social media.
“We’re discussing how, despite budget restrictions, we can continue to support those who need it most; provide high levels of service and protect jobs.”
The event brought together business sector, health, volunteer groups, education and faith leaders.
Among those using social media to send their comments were @Marshcp who said: “high speed broadband possible for all in Calderdale” while @AlistairRP said “Make Calderdale restorative. Stronger safer community proven to reduce spending”.
The council has already had to make savings of £56m since 2010/11, but needs to increase these to £96m by 2016/17.
It means an overall 37% budget cut by 2017.
Budget proposals will be revealed early next year and the final decisions will be taken at the Annual Budget Council meeting on February 25.
