Nearly 700 people have already had their say on Argyll and Bute Council’s plans for unprecedented cuts in public services.
The council says that because of cuts in funding from the Scottish Government it has to save £18m over two years, with schools and household bin collections among a long list of possible places for the axe to fall.
Dick Walsh, the veteran independent councillor who once again took control of the Lochgilphead authority following a turbulent period after the 2012 elections, released a 600-word statement this week welcoming the public’s participation in consultations.
And the council will be hosting a webchat on the subject on December 16, with details of how to take part due to be released nearer the time.
Cowal councillor Mike Breslin, who was elected as an SNP candidate but is now an independent, has highlighted the cost of senior officers at the council.
He says the total annual cost, including national insurance, pensions etc, of the chief executive is £158,235, while the three executive directors each cost £126,000.
The head of strategic finance and 11 heads of service come in at £92,700 apiece.
Unlike school crossing patrols or music tuition, none of these roles are considered for cuts in the council’s ‘service choices’ proposals.
This website has highlighted the almost total omission from the proposed cuts of the chief executive’s unit – costing an estimated £6m per year.
And the council’s apparent inability to sell surplus property or collect pier dues have also been highlighted here.
Cllr Walsh said: “We have looked at different ways in which we can make changes to balance our budget – from innovation or raising income, to reducing or even stopping some of the work we do.
“We are receiving a range of ideas from members of the public on different ways in which we could make the savings we need to make and transform our work, which is very welcome.
“Reducing print and postage costs, reducing travel costs through use of pool cars or on-line rather than face to face meetings, hiring out skills or facilities to the private sector – these are some examples of initial ideas put forward.”
The consultation document is available on the council’s website.
Well, they’ve got really nice office in which to discuss it.