feature: How would you spend it?
10 September 2008
We start deciding on our annual spending plans in July each year.
This year we are planning extra opportunities for local people to get involved in telling us what you think the priorities for spending in your area should be.
The council manages more than 700 separate services for a population of more than 224,000 people, from childcare and schools to elderly persons’ homes.
And all this has to be paid for.
Budget planning is a complex process, says Cllr Charles Adje, cabinet member for resources.
“We have to balance competing demands and get the best deal for taxpayers while meeting the needs of residents who depend on our services.
“Part of that is listening to residents, and now we want more people to get involved.”
Have your say
This year residents can take part in a special series of workshops, spending time getting to understand the issues before discussing priorities.
Sessions will be arranged in each area and there will also be workshops with specific groups – young people, older people, people with disabilities and community groups – so that everyone can have their say.
Watch out for details of how to sign up, and to find out more, please visit www.haringey.gov.uk/budgethaveyoursay or call 020 8489 2914.
Budget timetable
Work has already begun, with all parts of the council looking in detail at their plans for next year. Key dates are:
- Draft budget options finalised - November 2008
- Overview and Scrutiny Committee sessions - December 2008
- Government funding announcements - December 2008
- Budget proposals at Cabinet - January 2009
- Council agrees budget and Council Tax - February 2009
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