A public consultation into Birmingham City Council’s proposed budget for 2019/2020 will begin next week – with the council looking for new ways to slash a further £18 million off the city’s budget next year.
And in a further bid to boost funds, the city’s residents will face a 4.99% increase in council tax, including 2% for a “Social Care Precept” providing extra funding to meet the costs of social care.
With a reduction in local government funding, the council has already saved around £690 million since 2010 but still needs to find further savings of £86 million over the next four years.
This consultation looks at the council’s proposals for £18 million of new cuts for 2019/20. A further £32 million will be cut in line with ongoing savings which have already been previously consulted on, meaning a total of £50 million.
The consultation will begin on Tuesday 13th November and will run until New Years Eve with people able to give their views via the Birmingham Be Heard website.
Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “This continues to be the most challenging period in Birmingham City Council’s history. Local Government funding has been reducing for over a decade and this has meant changes to many services provided by the public sector, but also an increasing need for communities and others to support where we are no longer able to.
“We know that the decisions we are proposing will affect the lives of many people across the city which is why it is so important for us to hear from you, and that you take the time to engage with us.
“We want to work with you to help us make these difficult but important decisions. Last year’s budget was shaped by your feedback and we will of course listen to you again this year.
“While we do have some fantastic opportunities ahead of us, including the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the significant economic boost that will bring to the city, we are not shying away from the challenges we currently face and that’s why we need as many people as possible to have their say on these budget proposals.”
Have Your Say
Starts: Tuesday 13th November 2018
Ends: Monday 31st December 2018
View the budget proposals to be consulted on online here – available now.
Complete the online survey at Birmingham Be Heard (live from 13th November)
Request a paper copy of the survey or the consultation document in an alternative formate by email to budget.views@birmingham.gov.uk
Attend: the public consultation meeting on Weds 19th December or business rate payers meeting on Weds 12th December. For full details and to book a place, visit the#brumbudget19 web page from Tuesday 13th November
Debate online using hashtag #BrumBudget19