The leader of Argyll and Bute Council has welcomed a campaign by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) for fair funding for local government.
COSLA negotiates local government funding settlements with the Scottish Government on behalf of Scotland’s councils. Ahead of the budget negotiations, COSLA this week launched a document which outlines the central role local government plays in the local and Scottish economy. The document highlights that in the past five years local government budgets have reduced 10 times more than the Scottish budget. The council’s funding will not be confirmed by the Scottish Government until the end of the year or early 2019. As it must set its budget in February 2019, the council is asking local people what their priorities are for the work and role of the council so that these priorities can influence budget decisions. The council’s consultation is available on its website at argyll-bute.gov.uk/budgetconsultation-2018. Printed copies can be found in council customer service points or by contacting the council at workingtogether@argyll-bute.gov.uk or calling 01546 604171.