DISTRICT NEWS
FIRST the good news. I have a bit
of money in my ward budget, to spend as I wish on items to benefit Culter. If
any of you would like to suggest small items of Council expenditure, which would
enhance our facilities, or the village's appearance, please get in touch with
me. Some of this money * has already been spent on draining the school pitch;
* will be spent on a pavement
down the slip road to Millside, and the build-out to make the corner opposite
the shops safer (to be done soon, I
* is earmarked to help provide a
youth shelter. Further ideas are welcome.
Now
the bad news. As I write, on January 21st, we know that the financial budget
which the Scottish Executive has given the Council is much less than we need to
run existing services, without any of the enhancements which we had hoped for.
We are now the most underfunded council in Scotland. This will have an impact on
the Council Tax (to be set in February) and on services for the next financial
year. Councillors, including members of the Police and Fire Boards, are feeling
very bitter. We will be starting a campaign to try to get a fairer settlement.
We will be asking the public to join in that campaign, because the issue affects
every one of you. When the call comes, please respond vigorously and write in
support.
The
colder weather seems to have quietened things down on our streets. Let's hope
things stay that way!
Pam MacDonald