Dudley’s finance chief acknowledges the tough budget will impact many, especially the vulnerable, as cuts and increases loom ahead
Dudley: Cllr Steve Clark, the finance guy for the council, had a tough time at a recent meeting. He faced a lot of questions about the budget plans for the next year.
These plans are pretty drastic. They want to cut the council tax reduction for working-age folks from 77% down to 40%. Plus, they’re looking at raising council rent and fees for services, and even cutting some services like the Welfare Rights Team.
Cllr Clark admitted that everyone will feel the pinch. He said, “We will all struggle a little bit here.” He noted that while some cuts won’t be visible to the public, they will still hurt people.
Labour leader Cllr Pete Lowe didn’t hold back. He challenged Cllr Clark, saying the budget would hit the most vulnerable the hardest, especially those relying on services like council tax reductions or fleeing domestic abuse.
Cllr Clark mentioned that a consultation showed 60% of people thought a reduction was needed, but he acknowledged it would have a big impact on some.
They’re trying to save a massive £46 million while still spending £366 million. The plans will be reviewed over three sessions before a final vote in late February.
Questions about the future of leisure centres, libraries, and town halls also came up. Cllr Patrick Harley, the council leader, said they won’t be making any changes for the next five years, just looking for partners to run them.
When asked about the future of these sites, Cllr Clark stressed that the budget needs to pass for them to stay open. If it doesn’t, they could be in trouble.
Cllr Shaukat Ali from Labour pushed back, saying the assurances about the sites weren’t convincing. Cllr Clark reiterated that the budget’s approval is crucial for keeping everything running smoothly.
