Greenwich council is reaching out to residents for their input on how the budget should be allocated for the upcoming year. The borough typically spends over £332 million on various services such as child services, healthcare assistance, and constructing new council homes. However, due to past underfunding and a surge in demand for services, the council is facing significant financial strain, particularly in meeting urgent housing needs for around 2,000 households currently in temporary housing.
A council spokesperson emphasized the importance of providing quality services to the community despite the financial challenges. While the council has made substantial savings in the past year, there is still a projected budget gap of at least £27 million for the next year. The spokesperson highlighted the need for residents, businesses, and partners to be informed and involved in decision-making regarding the council’s finances and ongoing challenges.
The council aims to prioritize funding in areas where residents feel the most impact and remain adaptable to address emerging challenges while ensuring financial sustainability. Residents are encouraged to share their feedback on budget priorities for the upcoming year using the provided link before the Christmas Eve deadline.
In addition to seeking residents’ input on budget priorities, the council is committed to engaging with the community to identify areas for potential savings and ways to continue supporting residents effectively. By involving residents in the decision-making process, the council hopes to address the evolving needs of the community while maintaining a stable financial position.
Overall, the council’s goal is to ensure that services provided meet the needs of the community while navigating financial challenges in a sustainable manner. Residents’ feedback is essential in shaping the budget for the coming year and determining where resources should be allocated to best serve the community. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to have their voices heard and contribute to the decision-making process that impacts their daily lives.
