Council set for cut in members

A RURAL North Yorkshire council cabinet has given the go-ahead to plans to slash the number of elected members almost in half to cut costs.
By The Newsroom
Published 16th Feb 2012, 09:09 BST

Following a review by the Boundary Commission into the size of Hambleton District Council, its Cabinet this week recommended that the numbers are cut from 44 to 28.

Council leader Neville Huxtable said: “As a result of this extensive work we are recommending that 28 is the right size for Hambleton District Council,”

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“In the 13 years that I have been a councillor things have changed a great deal – the workload has reduced and technology has improved. We need to address these changes by reducing our numbers.

“While it is not about saving money there will be considerable savings as a result of shrinking to 28 – around £75,000 a year.

“This will provide us with an efficient and effective authority.

“It will be modern and streamlined and fit for the functions we now have to perform.”

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During the past 12 months, a working party made up of members of all parties and working with local parish councils has explored the possible make up of the council.

Members of Hambleton’s full council will vote on the proposals next Tuesday, February 21, before their decision is sent to the Boundary Commission to make the final judgement.