A LOSS-MAKING local authority is set to approve almost €1 million to fund the activities of its councillors next year.
At the annual budget meeting of Clare County Council today, county manager Tom Coughlan will say the projected deficit for 2011 is €500,000.
In his report to councillors, Mr Coughlan will say the chief factors behind the deficit were the council’s response to this year’s adverse weather, unexpected costs concerning Traveller accommodation and increased levels of vacant properties in Clare.
As part of the €102 million budget for next year, the 32 councillors are expected to approve €592,768 in representational payments, €197,000 in allowances and €150,400 in expenses for themselves.
They are also expected to sanction an allowance of €36,000 for the mayor, Councillor Pat Hayes, and the deputy mayor.
The budget for 2012 has already been subject to a number of behind-closed-doors meetings between management and councillors, and Mr Coughlan has ruled out a cut in commercial rates.
In his report to councillors, Mr Coughlan says: “Due to the fact that the household charge is being paid into the local government fund, and in the light of the continuing reduction in local government funding and income from local services, it has not been possible to provide for a decrease in rates in this draft budget.”
Mr Coughlan adds: “The issue of a reduction in rates has been considered at a number of council meetings during 2011, and the consequences of such a reduction have been made clear to the elected members at those meetings.”
He said the council “is acutely aware of the financial difficulties which our rate payers are experiencing, and we are committed to adopting a practical approach in terms of facilitating rate payers”.
