Opposition response to the Council's Budget

Leader of the opposition on Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Liberal Democrat Cllr Jonathan Lees, attacked the budget presented by the ruling Residents' Party at a council meeting on Tuesday 20th February.

He criticised the the plans, stating that the council had spent more of its working balance than targeted and was not following its financial strategy. He also commented that the council was not prioritising its spending to agreed targets, which it claims are based on residents views.

Cllr Lees said "whilst we can expect this kind of budget immediately before an election, it is clear that the Residents' Party in control of the council does not prioritise its spending in line with the views of local residents. Local people have told us that recycling and parking issues are really important to them, two subjects which the Residents' Party are tackling at a snail's pace. They continue to be out of touch but what can you expect when they refuse to consult on the council's budget."