From our District Councillor
District Council Budget 2010/2011
This is probably the toughest budget that this Council has ever had to set due to the impact of the recession and the smaller than expected government grant settlements.
We have had to make across the board savings to cover a deficit of £1.65 million pounds over the next year.
The savings we have made means the council tax increase was able to set at 2.95%, which is less than 8 pence per week for a band D property.
Plastic Bottle Collections
Unfortunately one of the cost saving measures in the budget is the ending of the plastic bottle collections at a saving of £119,000.
Violia will be emptying the plastic bottle banks more frequently; also the council are looking to provide more plastic bottle banks in the district in areas of greatly increased use.
Citizens Advice Bureau's
The council provides funding for Ely and Newmarket C.A.B's. We have maintained the funding in total in recognition of their importance during this recessionary period.
Tourism
Oliver Cromwell's House (owned by ECDC) is holding its own during the recession without a drop in its attendance or the income it generates. The local tourist board is situated within Oliver Cromwell's House.
ECDC updated its website on May the 11th. There is now more information available to the public on things such as places to stay and visit.
Council Grant Funding
Because of the present financial climate there will be very little grant funding available over the next two years.