FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE REPORT 2007/2008

Chairman: Councillor Keith Vickers

Once again I am pleased to report that our external auditors have accredited the Town Council Accounts for 2006/07 . They are available for public viewing between 9am and 1pm, Monday to Friday at the Town Council Office, Assembly Rooms, Queen Street and will also be available for inspection at the public Annual Town Meeting on Thursday 17th April.

Last year Barton Town Council was unable to provide Christmas lights for the town due to new Health and Safety legislation and the insurance company declining to insure the existing lights as they did not meet these new requirements. We were aware that many of you were disappointed with this decision but I am pleased to report that the issue has been addressed for 2008, as an additional sum has been included in the budget so that these new standards can be met.

There has also been money included in the budget for Nite Safe to be in operation for a six month period from May 2008 to fund Nite Safe staff who will be patrolling the streets of Barton from 9.30pm to 3am on Fridays and Saturdays. This initiative was successful in keeping our town safer at night when it was trialled for a three month period in 2007

These are the 2 main initiatives along with a sum for inflation and small enhancements for the town that have resulted in an increase in the Barton precept, taking a Band D property to £45 per year. However, the finance committee will continue to seek ways to reduce the costs of the Council, if possible, whilst providing you with the best value for money.

As all Town Councillors are volunteers and give their time freely, I would like to thank them for their dedication and support throughout the year. Also, many thanks to the council staff for their services to the Town Council in producing the many agendas and reports.