A MAJOR consultation on how Fife Council can save £66 million over the next three years has begun.
For the first time ever, the local authority has invited Fifers to have their say on the challenging budget process.
The first in a series of public meetings across the region were held in Methil and Inverkeithing on Tuesday night, and a number of people turned up to air their views.
Further meetings were held in Dunfermline and Cowdenbeath last night, and others have been arranged in Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Cupar, St Andrews and Oakley between now and December 20.
The public has also been urged to lodge potential budget-saving ideas on the Fife Council website, where people can comment on and rate the suggestions.
Those attending the meetings will have the chance to hold one-to-one discussions with councillors and view the ideas already put forward.
Council leader Alex Rowley thanked those who took the time to attend the sessions already held, adding: “It’s a cold and busy time of year so we really appreciate the effort that people have gone to to come along and talk to us about budget issues.
“Although only small numbers were able to attend, we talked about local issues that are important to people and got some good quality feedback about the budget process.
“I hope more residents will be able to get involved in the rest of the face-to-face discussions between now and Christmas.
He added: “As well as attending these meetings, I would also encourage people to get involved by going online and telling us what they think.
“I’d like to thank everyone who’s already been sharing their views through fifedirect or returned a paper survey.
“We’re starting to see some good activity so, if you haven’t already, please do take a look at our budget proposals and let us know what you think.”
A paper questionnaire pack about the administration’s draft budget proposals is available from offices and libraries.
The online conversation can be seen at
fifedirect.org.uk/budget
where nearly 90 ideas and over 270 comments have been posted about the council’s spending.
cwarrender@thecourier.co.uk