A public consultation on necessary budget cuts for the 2025/26 fiscal year highlights significant financial strain on the council. Proposed reductions aim to decrease a projected budget gap from 30 million to 10.8 million. Key measures include increasing service charges by 10% and potential cutbacks in essential services, such as closing eight libraries and diminishing street cleaning. Concern from residents and council members regarding the impact on local safety and community well-being has surfaced, as the proposed budget cuts could worsen already existing social issues.
Neil Littman voiced concern, stating, "The money saved could cost the council more to fix. Issues like muggings and drug dealing are already prevalent in parks."
Councillor Maria Alexandrou warned, "Labour's financial woes will impact the environment in Enfield; parks kept open 24/7 will attract drug dealing and more littering."
Councillor James Hockney remarked that residents would be shocked at the rising fees, service charges, and council tax, highlighting the significant impact of budget cuts.
The council’s plan included substantial cuts to social care and a proposal to close eight libraries, emphasizing a dire need for budget realignment.
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