BUSINESS owners and people in Hambleton are being asked to say what the district council should spend its money on and on the levels of council tax it levies.

The authority has launched a six-week budget consultation to get views on its current priorities, council tax and proposals to improve services and increase efficiency.

Council leader Councillor Mark Robson said: “Over the last few years we have faced significant financial pressures as a result of national austerity measures which have reduced the amount of Government support we receive.

“So far we have lost 38 per cent - £2.1million – and we will inevitably face further cuts as the government’s austerity measures continue. Councillors have already approved a financial strategy to take Hambleton forward over the next ten years and so far we have managed to deliver a balanced budget with little effect on frontline services.

“At the same time we are striving to achieve efficiency savings and keep council tax low.”

Council tax has been frozen over the last four years council tax has been frozen – and Cllr Robson said councillors intended to freeze it again next year.

“We need to know what local people want us to focus on – what are their priorities going forward, and would they approve an increase in council tax to invest in services. We hope people will work with us going forward,” he added.

View the consultation at hambleton.gov.uk/consultations/current-consultations or collect a copy from the council offices in Northallerton or Easingwold or Stokesley or Evolution Business Centre in Northallerton. They must be returned by October 20.