Westport Town Council has struck a rate of 64.84, which makes it the lowest rate multiplier in the county. This rate was agreed at a budget meeting on Thursday night where councillors proposed a 2.5 per cent reduction on rates in the town. This, according to the Cathaoirleach of the town, Councillor Myles Staunton, sends out the message that “Westport is open for business”.
Town Manager, Peter Hynes said that the budget must allow for maintaining core services in the town which are critical for the quality of life and also to ensure that Westport avails of any opportunities in the coming years.
The town manager said a lot was achieved in 2009 such as among others the extensive Tubberhill project and development of community facilities. In 2010 the council intend to commence and continue a number of projects including assisting the Town Hall restoration; improving community facilities; encouraging smarter travel and to support the innovation and enterprise centre.
Savings of €71,500 had to be found in order to accommodate a reduction in rates as proposed by councillors. Cllr Margaret Adams also said that money should be set aside towards assisting in dealing with the big freeze — €10,000 was agreed in calculating savings.
Through reducing car parking improvements by €10,000, this was put towards winter maintenance; by deferring the purchase of machinery for this year €21,000 was saved; by cutting the maintenance of parks €5,500 was saved; capital improvements to the leisure centre were cut by €10,000 ; and €10,000 was also taken from the development of the woodlands; it was also agreed to cut environmental improvements and reduce the amount spent on Christmas lights. All councillors welcomed the reduction in the rate multiplier.
