Tag #Local Government

Showing 13 to 24 of 220 results

theguardian.com

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Aug 19, 04:15

Privatization of Council Audits Costs England Taxpayers Millions

David Cameron's 2015 decision to abolish England's council spending watchdog has backfired, costing taxpayers far more than the promised £100m annual savings, with average audit costs tripling and several councils facing bankruptcy due to soaring fees and audit delays.

Privatization of Council Audits Costs England Taxpayers Millions

David Cameron's 2015 decision to abolish England's council spending watchdog has backfired, costing taxpayers far more than the promised £100m annual savings, with average audit costs tripling and several councils facing bankruptcy due to soaring fees and audit delays.

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What are the direct financial consequences of the UK government's decision to abolish the Audit Commission, and how has this impacted local councils?

The abolition of England's council spending watchdog, the Audit Commission, in 2015, intended to save £100m annually, has instead resulted in significantly increased audit costs. A University of Sheffield report reveals that average audit costs have more than tripled, reaching at least £50,000 higher per council than before the change. This has led to several councils declaring bankruptcy.

bbc.com

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Aug 7, 04:14

Government Redistributes £2.1 Billion in Council Funding, Hitting Inner London Hardest

The UK government will redistribute roughly £2.1 billion in annual council funding from 2026, with inner London councils facing cuts up to 12% after inflation, while outer London and other urban areas gain; the changes aim to align funding with service demand.

Government Redistributes £2.1 Billion in Council Funding, Hitting Inner London Hardest

The UK government will redistribute roughly £2.1 billion in annual council funding from 2026, with inner London councils facing cuts up to 12% after inflation, while outer London and other urban areas gain; the changes aim to align funding with service demand.

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How does the government's proposed redistribution of business rates income contribute to the overall shift in council funding?

The changes redistribute funding based on updated formulas considering council tax bands and business rates. Areas with higher shares of lower council tax properties gain, while those with many high-band properties lose. This shift reflects the government's goal to align funding with service demand, although the IFS notes the impact on London councils.

smh.com.au

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Aug 7, 13:20

Victorian Council to Sell Properties for Affordable Housing and Budget Relief

Hepburn Shire Council in Victoria, Australia will sell seven properties—three for affordable housing and four on the open market—to resolve a \$4 million budget shortfall and address a severe housing shortage affecting over 300 households.

Victorian Council to Sell Properties for Affordable Housing and Budget Relief

Hepburn Shire Council in Victoria, Australia will sell seven properties—three for affordable housing and four on the open market—to resolve a \$4 million budget shortfall and address a severe housing shortage affecting over 300 households.

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Sustainable Cities and Communities

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What are the long-term implications of this plan for affordable housing in regional areas, and what factors might determine its overall success or failure?

This initiative may influence other regional councils facing similar budgetary and housing challenges. The success of the affordable housing developments could set a precedent for future projects, while the revenue generated from property sales may provide a model for addressing financial shortfalls. However, the long-term effectiveness depends on the definition and implementation of "affordable housing" and collaboration with state government.

smh.com.au

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Aug 4, 10:17

Parramatta Council Demands Transparency After ICAC Raid

Following an ICAC raid on Parramatta City Council offices, councillors are demanding transparency and independent legal advice after their phones were seized and they weren't informed beforehand, raising concerns about governance and community trust.

Parramatta Council Demands Transparency After ICAC Raid

Following an ICAC raid on Parramatta City Council offices, councillors are demanding transparency and independent legal advice after their phones were seized and they weren't informed beforehand, raising concerns about governance and community trust.

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Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

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How does the council's response to the ICAC raid reflect its existing governance structures and risk management protocols?

The raid highlights potential governance issues and risks within the council. Councillors' requests for access to relevant plans (business continuity, crisis management) and a legal briefing underscore a need for improved internal communication and risk management strategies. The council's communication to staff about journalist inquiries further reveals concerns about transparency and potential conflict.

smh.com.au

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Jul 21, 22:12

Lancelin Lookout Demolition Paused Amid Erosion Crisis

The Shire of Gingin in Western Australia temporarily halted plans to demolish a beloved Lancelin lookout threatened by coastal erosion after facing strong community opposition, highlighting the conflict between safety and preserving the structure's emotional significance and memorial plaques, despit...

Lancelin Lookout Demolition Paused Amid Erosion Crisis

The Shire of Gingin in Western Australia temporarily halted plans to demolish a beloved Lancelin lookout threatened by coastal erosion after facing strong community opposition, highlighting the conflict between safety and preserving the structure's emotional significance and memorial plaques, despit...

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Sustainable Cities and Communities

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What immediate actions will the Shire of Gingin take to address the erosion at Lancelin's coastal area, balancing public safety concerns and community sentiment?

The Shire of Gingin, a cash-strapped local government in Western Australia, paused the demolition of a beloved coastal lookout in Lancelin after facing significant community backlash. The lookout, threatened by erosion, was slated for demolition to prioritize public safety, but the council reconsidered after an outpouring of concern from residents who have strong emotional attachments to the landmark. This decision highlights the conflict between necessary safety measures and community sentiment.

theguardian.com

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Jul 16, 22:13

UK Councils Rescind Climate Emergency Declarations

Durham County Council, led by a Reform Party majority, overturned its 2019 climate emergency declaration, replacing it with a County Durham care emergency declaration; this follows a similar decision by West Northamptonshire Council, sparking criticism and protests.

UK Councils Rescind Climate Emergency Declarations

Durham County Council, led by a Reform Party majority, overturned its 2019 climate emergency declaration, replacing it with a County Durham care emergency declaration; this follows a similar decision by West Northamptonshire Council, sparking criticism and protests.

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Climate Action

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What are the immediate consequences of Durham County Council's decision to revoke its climate emergency declaration?

Durham County Council, dominated by the Reform Party, rescinded its 2019 climate emergency declaration, prioritizing a "County Durham care emergency." This decision, condemned by opposition members, follows a similar move by West Northamptonshire Council, also led by Reform.

genova.repubblica.it

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Aug 10, 04:13

Genoa Hosts Unprecedented Summit of Italian Metropolitan City Mayors

Mayors of Italy's metropolitan cities will meet in Genoa on September 17th to discuss budgetary issues, public safety, immigration, and the integration of unaccompanied minors, highlighting the unique challenges faced by large urban areas.

Genoa Hosts Unprecedented Summit of Italian Metropolitan City Mayors

Mayors of Italy's metropolitan cities will meet in Genoa on September 17th to discuss budgetary issues, public safety, immigration, and the integration of unaccompanied minors, highlighting the unique challenges faced by large urban areas.

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Sustainable Cities and Communities

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What key challenges facing large Italian cities will be the primary focus of this unprecedented mayoral summit in Genoa?

On September 17th, mayors of Italy's metropolitan cities will convene in Genoa to address crucial issues like budget constraints and public safety. This unprecedented summit, hosted by Anci Liguria and Anci nazionale, follows a similar gathering in 2023, but with a focused approach on large city challenges.

welt.de

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Aug 7, 07:18

Thuringia Plans Further Municipal Mergers Amidst Funding Review

Thuringia plans further municipal mergers by 2026, continuing a trend of voluntary consolidations incentivized by premiums, reducing the number of municipalities from 849 in 2016 to 605 in 2024; the current funding program ends in 2026, with a review planned.

Thuringia Plans Further Municipal Mergers Amidst Funding Review

Thuringia plans further municipal mergers by 2026, continuing a trend of voluntary consolidations incentivized by premiums, reducing the number of municipalities from 849 in 2016 to 605 in 2024; the current funding program ends in 2026, with a review planned.

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Sustainable Cities and Communities

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What are the immediate consequences of the planned municipal mergers in Thuringia, and what is their significance for the region?

Following numerous voluntary mergers and restructuring of municipalities in Thuringia, further consolidations are planned, according to State Secretary for Local Government Andreas Bausewein. He stated that a new law is planned by December 31, 2026, although affected municipalities haven't yet made decisions. These mergers primarily involve municipalities in the Nordhausen district.", A2=

sueddeutsche.de

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Aug 5, 22:15

Munich Faces €220 Million Childcare Funding Gap Despite Stable Parental Fees

Despite the Bavarian state government's refusal to increase childcare subsidies, Munich will maintain its current funding levels, facing a €220 million budget shortfall this year and a projected €226 million shortfall next year to cover the costs of 592 subsidized institutions. Parents will see no i...

Munich Faces €220 Million Childcare Funding Gap Despite Stable Parental Fees

Despite the Bavarian state government's refusal to increase childcare subsidies, Munich will maintain its current funding levels, facing a €220 million budget shortfall this year and a projected €226 million shortfall next year to cover the costs of 592 subsidized institutions. Parents will see no i...

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Quality Education

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What are the immediate impacts of the Bavarian state government's decision on childcare funding in Munich?

The City of Munich will continue to fund childcare at the current rate, despite the Bavarian state government's failure to increase subsidies. This means that parents will not experience immediate changes in fees, but the city faces a significant budget shortfall. Munich allocates approximately €220 million this year and €226 million next year to offset the remaining costs after state subsidies and parental contributions for 592 subsidized institutions.", A2="The Bavarian state government's refusal to raise its contribution to childcare, despite requests from municipalities to increase funding from 60 percent to 90 percent, leaves Munich with a growing budget deficit. This decision contrasts with the state's plan to create 15,000 new positions in childcare by 2029, funded by a reduction in the Child Start Allowance. The city's continued funding prevents a massive increase in parental fees, but highlights the financial strain on local governments.", A3="Munich's current childcare funding model is unsustainable, as the gap between state subsidies and actual costs continues to widen. The city's decision to maintain current parental fees, while financially risky, reflects a commitment to affordable childcare. Future funding solutions are necessary, potentially including increased parental contributions or alternative funding sources if the current financial strain is not resolved.", Q1="What are the immediate impacts of the Bavarian state government's decision on childcare funding in Munich?", Q2="How does the Bavarian state government's plan to increase staffing in childcare facilities relate to its funding decisions for municipalities?", Q3="What are the long-term implications for Munich's childcare system if the funding gap between state subsidies and actual costs is not addressed?", ShortDescription="Despite the Bavarian state government's refusal to increase childcare subsidies, Munich will maintain its current funding levels, facing a €220 million budget shortfall this year and a projected €226 million shortfall next year to cover the costs of 592 subsidized institutions. Parents will see no immediate increase in fees.", ShortTitle="Munich Faces €220 Million Childcare Funding Gap Despite Stable Parental Fees"))

politico.eu

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Jul 31, 07:16

Europe's Defense Dilemma: Military Spending vs. Social Welfare"

During NATO's recent summit, only Spain opposed raising defense spending to 5 percent of GDP, prompting questions about prioritizing military strength over social welfare in the face of rising living costs and strained public services across Europe; this is particularly critical given recent crackdo...

Europe's Defense Dilemma: Military Spending vs. Social Welfare"

During NATO's recent summit, only Spain opposed raising defense spending to 5 percent of GDP, prompting questions about prioritizing military strength over social welfare in the face of rising living costs and strained public services across Europe; this is particularly critical given recent crackdo...

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What are the immediate implications of NATO's proposed defense spending increase, particularly concerning the trade-off between military preparedness and social welfare in Europe?

Only Spain questioned NATO's proposed defense spending increase to 5 percent of GDP, a dramatic rise from the previous 2 percent benchmark. This decision highlights a potential trade-off between military preparedness and social welfare, a key concern for many Europeans facing rising living costs and strained public services.",

dailymail.co.uk

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Jul 18, 16:17

Reform Fails to Deliver Promised Council Tax Cuts Amidst Record Social Care Spending

Reform party councils, despite initial pledges, will not cut council tax due to high social care costs; the party aims for slower increases than other councils. This follows a record £774 million overspend on adult social care budgets in England, impacting services and potentially undermining govern...

Reform Fails to Deliver Promised Council Tax Cuts Amidst Record Social Care Spending

Reform party councils, despite initial pledges, will not cut council tax due to high social care costs; the party aims for slower increases than other councils. This follows a record £774 million overspend on adult social care budgets in England, impacting services and potentially undermining govern...

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No Poverty

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What are the primary reasons why Reform councils are unable to reduce council tax as initially promised?

Reform party councils will not reduce council tax despite earlier pledges, primarily due to the high cost of social care. Zia Yusuf, head of Reform's cost-cutting unit, stated that increasing council tax more slowly than other councils is the best achievable outcome. This contradicts previous statements by Dan Harrison, the Reform leader of Leicestershire County Council.

sueddeutsche.de

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Jul 16, 07:11

Rheinland-Pfalz Seeks Increased Federal Funding for Municipalities

Rheinland-Pfalz's Minister President Alexander Schweitzer announced a 600 million Euro investment to aid municipalities while advocating for increased federal funding to address rising social costs; three municipalities are suing the state over its financial equalization scheme, highlighting a large...

Rheinland-Pfalz Seeks Increased Federal Funding for Municipalities

Rheinland-Pfalz's Minister President Alexander Schweitzer announced a 600 million Euro investment to aid municipalities while advocating for increased federal funding to address rising social costs; three municipalities are suing the state over its financial equalization scheme, highlighting a large...

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What are the underlying causes of the financial strain on municipalities in Rheinland-Pfalz, and how do these connect to broader trends in German public finance?

Three municipalities in Rheinland-Pfalz—Pirmasens and two counties—are suing the state over its municipal financial equalization scheme. Schweitzer highlights a 600 million Euro investment as part of a large-scale support program to strengthen municipal budgets and facilitate infrastructure projects funded through federal infrastructure programs. However, he points out this is a temporary fix and emphasizes the need for sustained federal aid to address long-standing financial shortfalls.

Showing 13 to 24 of 220 results