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Council News
Arundel Town Council Edited extracts from the draft minutes of the Arundel Town Council meeting held on 9th January 2020. Public Questions A member of the public expressed concern with the council using (his) tax payers’ money to fund something that he thinks the commercial or businesses of Arundel should pay for. He asked, “Why does the council think they should use home taxpayer’s money, to do something for businesses, when businesses pay rates for things like a town manager. Surely the money could be spent on keeping Arundel clean and supporting what we already have”. Councillors discussed this question and agreed that they would listen to further relevant information provided throughout the meeting. From the Mayor The Mayor attended several concerts and school events over the Christmas period as well as a Carol Service at Ford Prison. The Mayor expressed her condolences for several local Arundel residents who have recently passed away including John Seller, Yvonne Chitty and George Stedman. Arundel Town Council Budget It was asked if the Council would consider additional budget towards the cleaning costs of Canada
Gardens, yet it was confirmed it was too late for consideration in the 2020/21 budget. Budget Amendment The Mayor proposed an amendment to the budget: “The employment of the role of a Town Manager/Economic Development Manager is an unjustified expense of £36,270 for Arundel Town Council as it does not fall within the remit or accountability of Arundel Town Council who have responsibility only for the residents of Arundel who pay the precept. It represents 21% of this income which finances the Town Council. The role of Town Manager is principally for the economic redevelopment of the Town. Businesses pay rates directly to Arun District Council therefore this economic redevelopment is their responsibility. That being the case the Employment of a Town Manager should be resolved by the Arundel Town Council to be removed from the Arundel Town Council Budget for 2020/2021.” The Mayor and Deputy Mayor voted in favour whilst several other Councillors voted against. The amendment was lost. For full minutes from these and other Town Council meetings visit: www.arundeltowncouncil.gov.uk
