Residents in the Vale of White Horse are being encouraged to take part in a survey to help shape the 2013/14 budget. Between Wednesday 3 October and Wednesday 7 November people will be able to take part in a survey asking their opinion on a variety of topics relating to next year’s Vale of White Horse District Council budget. Residents will have the chance to have their say on what services they think the council should prioritise and how the council should spend funds in these financially uncertain times Those responding to the survey will be asked for feedback on the scheme introduced last year to give two hours free parking in council car parks. Other topics include investment in promoting sport and physical activity, and whether the council should use powers to change the amount of Council Tax paid on properties such as empty and second homes. As part of the consultation the Vale will also be carrying out a workshop with members of the council’s Residents’ Panel, which will allow issues to be discussed more in depth, with closer consideration of the costs involved. This year the annual budget consultation is taking place much earlier than normal. This will allow more time and opportunity for residents’ views to be taken into account in the decision making process. Once the consultation period has ended the Vale’s cabinet will consider all responses prior to making its budget proposal ahead of the council meeting on Wednesday 20 February. Cllr Matthew Barber, Leader and cabinet member for finance, said: “Financially we are in a much more stable position than we were a few years ago, however with less funding coming from the government each year coupled with the ongoing economic problems, it is very important that we continue to be robust in how we manage our spending. “While we have to ensure our finances are secure our primary goal is to deliver first class services for our residents. Therefore we encourage people to complete the survey to let us know what they think should be the priorities for our next budget and how they think we should develop our services so they provide better value for money.” To find out more about the 2013/14 budget, and to take part in the survey please visit www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/haveyoursay. If you would like a paper copy of the survey please contact the Vale’s consultation officer on 01235 547614