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A Financial Plan Based on Your Priorities Last Piece of the Green

A Financial Plan Based on Your Priorities Last Piece of the Green

NEWYDDION Council News Spring 2016 Issue 48 www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru 01766 771000 @cyngorgwynedd cyngorgwyneddcouncil

In this edition… A financial plan based on your priorities has approved a financial strategy to address the significant balanced budget, the Council must deliver financial pressure it faces over the next two years that is firmly based on the £4.9 million of service cuts over the next priorities expressed by local people during the recent “Gwynedd Challenge” public two years. consultation. These cuts - the absolute bare minimum Like most councils in , Gwynedd is services by cutting spending on the required - reflect the priorities noted by local facing a major funding shortfall. This is as so-called “back office” to the minimum. people in their responses to the Gwynedd a result of a combination of huge year on Because of this, Council spending on Challenge consultation questionnaire and year cuts in the funding it receives from these central functions is being cut by an the evidence submitted by individuals, central government to deliver local services additional £1.07 million on top of the organisations and specific groups. and increases in the demand and cost of £3.3 million already achieved over the last l At the heart of our - delivering those services. two years. “At the start of the Gwynedd Challenge Page 03 process we pledged that we would base our In the face of this challenge, Gwynedd Unfortunately, the magnitude of the decisions on the priorities of local people,” people say they want the Council to reductions in the funding Gwynedd Council said Gwynedd Council’s Finance Cabinet continue to find more efficient ways of receives from the government to pay for Member, Councillor Peredur Jenkins. working to reduce the need for service local services means that these steps in cuts. In response, £26 million of efficiency themselves will not be enough to bridge the “Every possible effort was made to savings have been approved or delivered, remaining shortfall which stands at encourage local people to have their say, and no stone is being left unturned to £5.5 million for the next two financial years. and we are grateful to the 2,142 of you who deliver even more. filled in the survey questionnaire, the 600 As a result, in order to protect as many who attended 32 public meetings in every Local people also say they want the as possible of the services that Gwynedd corner of the county, and the hundreds Council to protect people say they value the most, Council who sent in letters, emails, petitions and front line Tax will increase by 3.97% rather comments. than the 3.5% originally l What’s in Storiel? see page 10 planned for 2016/17 and “Throughout this extremely difficult process, 2017/18. we have been determined to listen to and act upon what local people and Gwynedd After all these organisations have told us. Where possible Turn to pages 6 - 8 to find out more measures are we have modified our proposals and we about: implemented, to sincerely believe that this financial strategy Challenge meet its legal duty shows that we have kept to our word.” n the huge financial challenge facing to set a Gwynedd Council n the Council’s strategy to tackle the financial shortfall We asked, You said, We listened, We did… n how to pay your Council Tax bill Turn to pages 4 - 5 to find out more about how n help for those who are struggling to your views have shaped this important work 4 pay

that’s being buried in landfill Last piece of the green jigsaw in place sites continues to fall.

From Bangor to Bala and to Trefor, households across the county are Since November, homes in Arfon - the county’s “Thanks to the commitment of local people playing a key role in the campaign to make Gwynedd one of the greenest most heavily populated area - have seen a to make the most of the weekly food and counties in Wales. change in their leftover waste collection. This recycling waste collections, we are moving follows on from the successful introduction towards our aim of making Gwynedd one of the of three-weekly leftover waste collections in greenest counties in Wales,” said Councillor the Dwyfor and areas over the John Wynn Jones, Gwynedd Cabinet Member previous year. for the Environment.

As part of the changes, a large number of “It’s fantastic that so many people have already homes across Gwynedd have received and made the little changes that have such a are making good use of the ‘Cartgylchu’ - three huge positive impact on our environment. The blue recycling boxes on wheels into which challenge now is to persuade every home in materials can be conveniently ‘posted’ and Gwynedd to join the green revolution wheeled to the side of the road ready for the weekly recycling collection. The ‘Cartgylchu’ “Wales is already the third best country in the roll-out to other suitable homes is continuing. whole of Europe for recycling; let’s make sure that we in Gwynedd help to take our country to Since the changes have been introduced, the top of the European league table.”

l recycling rates in Gwynedd have gone up to Pupils at Ysgol Bro Lleu, Penygroes are keen recyclers, helping teachers to make For more information about how the sure that waste from the school is sorted into the correct bin. Here they are with 58% - which is the statutory target councils are expected to reach over the 2015/16 period. We efforts of Gwynedd’s people are helping the new Cartgylchu, which will help families across Arfon to sort their waste for us make Gwynedd one of the greenest recycling at home too must reach 64% by 2020 and 70% by 2025. At the same time, the percentage of our waste counties in Wales, turn to page 9. Spring 2016 NEWYDDION

Message from the Leader Hop into Gwynedd events this spring The experience of attempting to set this year’s budget has been SeptemberMARCH JUNEJUNE like staring into the 10 - Musical Pilgrim Tour, 11 - Dysynni Trail Fest 25-26 - Kite Festival abyss. Being dragged to the edge of a cliff and 1pm at St Padarn’s Church Tywyn Held on the beach opposite the Lifeboat forced to look down into A musical programme with Elinor Bennett The Trail Fest race series will start Station. the black hole facing you. (harp), Huw Llywelyn (tenor) and poetry and finish in the walled garden of www.barrikiteflyers.com Financially that is where by Twm Morys and the pupils of Ysgol Woodland Park, before we now are as a Council, teetering on the Dolbadarn. running along the tranquil banks of the l Barmouth Kite Festival edge and doing all we can to avoid the [email protected] / 01286 685 230 , and the surrounding Dysynni worst for Gwynedd and its people. valley. www.wats-on-events.com The severe central government cuts to public 27 - Triathlon sector funding mean that all councils in Starts at 10am, competitors to gather at the Wales are now facing major budget shortfalls. Dwyfor Leisure Centre by 8.45am 12 - Etape www.plasheli.org / 01758 613 343 In Gwynedd, we have been consistent in our Starting from Castle Square, . Four challenging cycle races - Etape Bach approach to the situation facing us: protecting APRIL frontline services to the best of our ability; APRIL (43 miles), Etape Canol (70 miles) Etape delivering additional savings in those areas Mawr (120 miles) and Etape Xtrem (226 that do not impact directly on the public and 16 - Moelwyn Race miles). striking a balance between implementing Blaenau [email protected] cuts and raising income through council tax www.etapeeryri.com to protect services. This is how we have [email protected] / 01766 832 214 01248 723553 succeeded in creating a situation where we are able to continue to provide services in our MAYMAY communities. 24-26 - RS Thomas Literary Festival Through careful financial planning and 13 & 14 - Caernarfon Food Festival St Hywyn’s Church, implementing a long-term strategy, we A warm welcome and lots of fantastic A weekend celebrating influences of have been able to avoid falling over the produce, food, animals, cookery different art forms on each other with edge despite the severity of the cuts. But it demonstrations and entertainment awaits you. poetry, art and music. has been touch and go, with a number of www.gwylfwydcaernarfon.cymru/en/ [email protected] decisions that remain uncomfortable and we home www.st-hywyn.org.uk have also attempted to buy time so that new 01758 703 039 options can be considered to sustain some services in the future. 28-29 - Llŷn Land and Seafood Festival Plas Heli, Pwllheli For more information about other events and activities in Gwynedd, and to tell We have carried out an extremely detailed An array of meats, drinks, cheeses, wines, us about an event go to www.gwynedd.llyw/cymru/events and comprehensive public consultation fish, olives, breads, confectionery, shellfish, You can also find out more about what’s happening in the county by following through the Gwynedd Challenge exercise fruit and vegetables will be on offer. @CyngorGwynedd on Twitter and ‘like’ the Council on Facebook - and the messages you as Gwynedd people www.plasheli.org / 01758 613343 www.facebook.com/CyngorGwyneddCouncil have conveyed have been extremely useful – the process of talking directly with people and communities as well as the results of the consultation. We have learnt a great deal from the discussions with communities and from the process of sharing information and Be in the know - follow ideas. www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru Gwynedd on Twitter Without a doubt, we must build on this positive public engagement work and and Facebook maintain a constant dialogue with the people of Gwynedd. We need to support each other Nowadays news and create an alternative future if we are from all corners of to withstand the worst of the cuts and try to the world can reach create hope for the future. The days where us within seconds a county council stands alone in running a museum or managing a theatre are rapidly through the power of becoming a thing of the past. social media and the same story rings true Every one of us has an opinion on the cuts here in Gwynedd. and we all feel the unfairness to the core: the unfairness of being forced to choose Gwynedd Council’s web address has “The .cymru domain puts Wales and There’s no need to between funding services for children in changed to www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru the firmly on the global wait for the next edition care or to support plans in the arts sector; of Newyddion to keep the unfairness of having to choose between digital map. I hope that our decision will closing a facility or keeping it open. And it The old Council web address will continue encourage other councils and public bodies up with the latest from is us in Gwynedd who have to make these to work for a period of three years, to allow in Gwynedd and across Wales to embrace the Council - everything from information choices, not those politicians in Westminster time for information pamphlets and other this technological development which about new local services and community who are in thrall to their agenda of cutting documents to be updated. promotes our unique language and culture events to road closures and safety spending on public services. to the world.” advice during severe weather - are Councillor Ioan Thomas, Gwynedd posted instantly on the Council’s Twitter Of course, each one of us will scream in Council’s Cabinet Member for Customer The e-mail addresses for staff and and Facebook. desperation from time to time; or feel like fanning the flames of protest, but as elected Care, said: “Over the years, Gwynedd elected members will also be changing to councillors our responsibility is to govern Council has led the field in our use and [email protected] Over 16,500 residents already get their responsibly for the sake of all parts of our promotion of the Welsh language in in the future, when arrangements between Gwynedd news as and when it happens. society. This is the best contribution we can everything we do, and we are continuing to the Welsh Government and the Why not join them by following: make under these grave circumstances: do so by formally adopting the Cabinet Office allow this. @CyngorGwynedd on Twitter attempting to create hope and stability in www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru web address. CyngorGwyneddCouncil on Facebook a situation where everything can appear hopeless and uncertain. It is our privilege to be a signpost to the future. A glossary of key words used on the Welsh side of this If you would like Newyddion Gwynedd is produced paper can be found at www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/news Newyddion Gwynedd on on 100% recycled paper. If you are reading Newyddion online, you can get mp3 or in another language When you’ve finished quick translations of key words (highlighted in or format, please phone reading this newspaper Councillor Dyfed Edwards yellow) by clicking on the word itself. 01766 771000. please recycle it. Gwynedd Council Leader

02 Gwynedd Council Spring 2016 A new vision for health and social care The new Social Services and Well-being Act comes into force on 6 April and will The Social Services be the biggest shake-up of social care in Wales in 60 years. and Well-being

The new legislation is likely to help areas Act has four main like Gwynedd where the pressure on health and social services is set to increase over principals at its core: the coming years because of our ageing n People: Everyone who has population. dealings with social services - vulnerable adults and children, The Council aims to encourage people to their families and carers - will be more independent and stay healthy for l Gwynedd Council and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have been working have a stronger voice and longer, with the help of friends, family and together on an ambitious project at Ysbyty Alltwen, to integrate social care more control over the care and the wider community so that they don’t and health services, leading to an improved, more efficient and simpler service for users. assistance they receive, for need health and social care services for as Members of the Council’s Cabinet recently visited the hospital to see how services have example they may be given the long as possible. However, when people changed, and how they are now in the spirit of the new Social Services and Wellbeing direct choice of how their care do require help, it will be available so that Act 2014. Pictured are Cabinet members, Councillor Gareth Roberts, Dyfed Edwards budget is spent problems are not exacerbated. and Dyfrig Siencyn with Manon Williams, of the Council’s Adults, Health and Wellbeing Service and Louise Davies, Ward Manager at Ysbyty Alltwen n Early intervention: Better use of Steps have already been taken towards services which help people stay this goal of increasing independence, - and the effects this will have on public for the people of Gwynedd for decades to healthy for longer, preventing such as the opening of extra care housing services for years to come - are undeniable. come. them from needing more intensive developments and a rehabilitation scheme For example, it is estimated that the health and social care for older people who have suffered injuries number of over-85 year-olds in Gwynedd “Importantly, the act also promises to help or conditions such as strokes. Under the will increase by 68% by 2030 and a quarter protect vulnerable adults and children from n Well-being: supporting people to new legislation, there will also be more of those within this age group are today abuse or neglect and will also give carers look after themselves choices and more creative solutions to living with dementia. the same rights as those they care for.” problems. n Collaboration: better cooperation “We all want people to be healthy, happy For more information about the act, go between organisations, such as Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member for and comfortable as they age. I am confident to the Council’s website Gwynedd Council, the local health Adults, Health and Wellbeing, Councillor that by embracing this new legislation, and www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru and click board, voluntary and charity Gareth Roberts, said: “The evidence that changing the way we do things here in on ‘Health and Social Care’ on the organisations. Gwynedd is seeing an ageing population Gwynedd, we can provide a better service homepage.

Robyn and Ifor have been working at the National Slate Museum in Llanberis for 15 years and five years At the heart of our society respectively. They help to keep the museum looking neat and tidy by cleaning the information boards and both Gwynedd Council is helping people with learning that are willing to open their doors to give more adults enjoy making friends with the other members of staff. disabilities to play a more active role in society by with learning disabilities further opportunities, and I would supporting them to get jobs, take on responsibilities urge anyone interested in being a part of this inspiring and make new friendships. initiative to get in touch.”

Active Support schemes are run in all areas of the The scheme gives adults with learning disabilities equal County and assist those taking part to get jobs in various rights in terms of getting a job, being able to look after local establishments - for example working in shops, themselves and choosing how to spend their leisure cafes and offices - by teaching them new skills and time, according to one of the people who helps make this giving them the right support. possible.

In addition, people with learning disabilities who attend Gwenno Williams, Senior Service Manager for Gwynedd, the Council unit at Parc Glynllifon near Caernarfon make said: “We have been modernising these schemes and sell crafts; users of the Dolfeurig centre in recently and our aim is to make sure that everyone has a make and sell crafts and T-shirts, run a café as well as role in society. a service to keep local gardens tidy; and service users near Pwllheli run the successful and popular ‘Popty “In the past, I think lots of people missed out, but today Prysur’ which produces and sells delicious cakes and our attitude is that everyone has a contribution to make treats to the public. and with the right support they can be involved and included in community life. The service users also help others, for instance they s Ifor carries recently collected food and clothes to send to Syrian “Through the scheme, we enable the individuals to look out his cleaning refugees. after themselves, allow them to see how they can help duties at the others, and also give them opportunities to do the things Llanberis Slate Councillor Gareth Roberts, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet that they enjoy in their free time, for example to go Museum, as member with responsibility for social services said: swimming or horse riding.” support worker “The work this project does in all areas of Gwynedd is amazing. The staff take the time to teach new skills to Dylan Bee looks If you run a business in Gwynedd and would like on people so that they can grow and be able to contribute as full members of society. to offer someone with learning disabilities the opportunity to work at your firm, please contact s Robyn enjoys “This is allowing service users to be more independent Gwynedd Council. Full training and support will a day’s work at and make their own friends. By being more visible in be given to any business taking part. the museum society I hope they can teach others that everyone has a n Arfon Area - 01286 672037 contribution to make. n Dwyfor Area - 01766 810749 n Meirionnydd Area - 01341 423031 “The Council is always looking for more local businesses

Gwynedd Council 03 NEWYDDION How your views have shaped Gwynedd Council’s Financial Strategy 1 We asked... 3 We listened and we did… Between September and December 2015, Gwynedd Council invited local people and organisations to have their say on the huge You said... financial shortfall facing the Council. you wanted the Council to make every effort to limit cuts by working more efficiently. This county-wide exercise was an opportunity: n To explain why the Council is facing a 4 financial shortfall of approximately We did... A root and branch review of all services £50 million has been carried out to deliver £6.4 million of efficiency savings in 2016/17 alone with n To present local people with the 118 possible a further £9 million to come in future years. service cut options that the Council could conceivably implement

n To establish which of these 118 possible Unfortunately, once efficiency savings, service cut options Gwynedd people valued cuts to the “back office” and the 3.97% the most and wanted the Council to protect if Council Tax increase have been included, at all possible. an outstanding £4.9 million shortfall remains to be found by implementing Every possible effort was made to encourage l Gwynedd Challenge 49 out of the 118 possible service cut local people to have their say and in response: Felinheli drop-in session options presented to the public during the Gwynedd Challenge consultation. of you returned a Gwynedd 2,142 Challenge questionnaire We did... 4 of you attended one of the 32 drop- 615 in sessions and public forums held 41 (84%) of the 49 service in every corner of the county cuts that councillors decided to implement match the cut options that received the least organisations and support from local people in the Gwynedd individuals presented l Tywyn residents discussing the Challenge survey. Over 100 Gwynedd Challenge questionnaire additional evidence and feedback

2 You said… All the feedback received was then analysed and a detailed report on the results Councillors have also removed some published. This report can be read online at other services that had received limited www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/GwyneddChallenge support in the Gwynedd Challenge survey or at your local library. from the cuts list.

The results of the process were then Derwen Support Service for disabled presented to councillors at a series of n all 118 possible cut options in order - from children and children with a long 4 workshops in January. A finalised list of cut the ones that received the least support term illness - a proposal to cut 10% from this recommendations was then produced and from local people to those which you were services budget was removed from the list of approved by a meeting of all 75 members at most eager to protect cuts to be implemented. the Full Council on 3 March. n the services that were considered a high priority in different areas of the county In drawing up the finalised list of cut n the evidence submitted by groups and School meals - rather than increasing recommendations, all the available evidence organisations representing sectors the price of school meals to £3.00 a day, 4 from the Gwynedd Challenge public including the arts, young people and the increase has been limited to £2.50. This will consultation was considered including: business sectors. mean a price increase of 20p rather than 70p.

04 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION How your views have shaped Gwynedd Council’s Financial Strategy

“With almost half of We listened and we did… respondents to the public You said... consultation favouring 55% of you said that you thought that a Council Tax increasing Council Tax increase of 3.5% was the best option to bridge a by between 4% and 5%, You said... portion of the remaining shortfall whilst 45% of you you wanted the Council to cut spending under the circumstances we believe were prepared to see a higher increase of 4%, 4.5% or on administration to the minimum. that a 3.97% Council Tax increase 5% if it meant less service cuts. strikes the best possible balance between protecting the services that local people most value and We did... 4 the impact of Council Tax increases Gwynedd Council’s “back office” We did... 4 on Gwynedd households.” functions are being further cut to A 3.97% Council Tax increase has been agreed as this reduce expenditure by £1.07 million will allow the Council to protect a number of highly Councillor Peredur Jenkins on top of the £3.3 million already valued services that would otherwise have to be cut Gwynedd Council Cabinet achieved over the last two years. including leisure centres and recycling centres. Member for Resources

In more detailed evidence, groups and organisations representing key local Arts and Culture 4 sectors presented arguments that some proposals that had received limited - aggregate support from the public as a whole should not be cut. Councillors have listened proposals to to this evidence and removed a number of proposals from the “cuts list”: delete all funding for arts and culture have been limited Business and Tourism Libraries Service - whilst the library to implementing a sectors - 4 cut proposals 4 service will have to deliver efficiency 33% reduction in that would have a big savings of just over £100,000 and their budget. impact on these important implement reductions to their books local sectors were budget, no additional cut burdens will removed from the list of be placed upon the service. Community Regeneration - a proposal to delete the 4 cuts to be implemented. Council’s Community Regeneration Unit was removed from 4 the list of cuts to be implemented.

Youth Clubs and grants to youth 4 organisations - rather than cutting these services, the Council will look instead to deliver the required savings by re-profiling the service.

Lloyd George Museum, Neuadd Barmouth Bridge pedestrian access & Aber Swing Bridge, Caernarfon - Rather Dwyfor, - The Council recognises the importance of both these facilities to the two than closing the museum Pwllheli - local communities. As a result, the Council is looking to identify ways in immediately, a decision has Rather than which the cost of both facilities to the Gwynedd Council Taxpayer can be been taken not to implement immediately significantly reduced. this cut until April 2017 to closing this allow time for alternative ways local cinema of running the facility to be and theatre explored. facility considered important by local people, Councillors have agreed to look again at this proposal within the next 12 months. This will give time for the Council to explore the possibility of transferring the facility to a local l l organisation or group. Aber Swing Bridge Barmouth Bridge

Gwynedd Council 05 Spring 2016 NEWYDDION Gwynedd’s financial strategy

73 pence in every £1 of the 270 Financial shortfall facing Gwynedd Council money Gwynedd Council 260 spends on our local services comes from the government 250 in the form of a grant. 240 £48 Estimated Shortfall million Between April 2014 and March 230 2018 alone it is forecast that this government funding for our local services will have been cut by around £19 million. 220

210 At the same time, the Council will need an additional £29 million £264 million to cover the costs of increasing demand for essential services 200 such a care and support for older people along with the costs of 190 £216 inflation. million 180 With government funding continually being cut, and costs and pressures going up, Gwynedd, like councils across the UK, has no choice but to drastically reduce its expenditure simply to balance the books. 0

How much of a financial shortfall is Gwynedd How does the Council intend to address the How can I be sure that Gwynedd Council’s Council facing this year (2016/17)? shortfall for this year? Financial Strategy is up to standard?

In 2016/17 alone Gwynedd Council faces a By implementing further efficiency £6.4 million Every year the shortfall of £13.6 million: savings independent public By increasing Council Tax by 3.97% £2.4 million service watchdog the Cut in the annual grant from £2.6 million Wales Audit Office the government By delivering a programme of cuts £4.8 million* carries out an inspection Inflationary price increases £4.2 million of the way in which Total £13.6 million Gwynedd Council manages its finances. Additional National Insurance £2.6 million * a further £0.1m of cuts will be implemented in 2017/18 contributions The annual “Gwynedd Council - Financial Resilience Assessment“ report published by Cost of additional demand £1.2 million the Wales Audit Office in March 2016 notes: for local services How much will the Council Tax increase cost me? “The Council’s financial management Funding gap brought forward £2 million arrangements are sound and it is well from 2015/16 The 3.97% increase in Council Tax bills for placed to tackle future challenges.” Other requirements £1 million 2016/17 will mean that a Gwynedd resident living in a B and D property will pay an additional £3.84 “The Council has an effective Total shortfall for 2016/17 £13.6 million a month or £46.09 a year. framework for financial planning.”

At the moment, most of Gwynedd Council’s budget is spent on two service areas - education and adult care. Spending on these two important service areas dwarfs spending on all other Gwynedd Council services such as roads, refuse collection, leisure centres, libraries and economic development.

Care for Support to Libraries, Housing Care for Highways & Waste Fire Service, Planning & Economic Other Education Children & pay Rent & the Arts & Service Adults & Older Transportation Services Snowdonia National Environmental Development Costs £93.2 People Families Council Tax Leisure Park & Other £6.5 £16 £14.1 £5.6 £3.2 £0.9 million £49.5 £13.8 £10.6 £7.2 £6.6 million million million million million million million million million million million

41% 22% 7% 6% 6% 5% 3% 3% 3% 2% 1% > 1% The Council Tax breakdown for your community can be seen opposite

06 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2016

The 2016/17 Council Tax community by community As well as funding Gwynedd Council services, your Council Tax also goes towards the more local services provided by your local Community, Town or City Council plus services provided by North Wales Police. This year, the Gwynedd Council part of your Council Tax bill will increase by 3.97%, the North Wales Police part by 2% and the Community, Town or City Council part by an average of 8.67%.

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COUNCIL COMMUNITY COUNCIL COMMUNITY COUNCIL GWYNEDD COUNCIL NORTH WALES police - BAND D COUNCIL TAX PRECEPT 2015/16 PRECEPT 2016/17 BAND D Amount BAND D Amount Amount band d 2016/17 £ £ £ £ £ £ Aberdaron 8,000 9,000 17.09 1,207.16 240.12 1,464.37 23,334 23,568 25.46 1,207.16 240.12 1,472.74 2,000 2,000 17.22 1,207.16 240.12 1,464.50 Abermaw (Barmouth) 41,760 52,000 47.89 1,207.16 240.12 1,495.17 8,500 8,500 13.99 1,207.16 240.12 1,461.27 Y Bala 16,500 19,000 25.00 1,207.16 240.12 1,472.28 Bangor 318,949 331,532 91.06 1,207.16 240.12 1,538.34 7,990 8,500 27.69 1,207.16 240.12 1,474.97 1,300 1,300 9.94 1,207.16 240.12 1,457.22 Bethesda 53,495 56,735 34.56 1,207.16 240.12 1,481.84 Bontnewydd 14,500 15,500 35.30 1,207.16 240.12 1,482.58 4,500 5,000 11.47 1,207.16 240.12 1,458.75 Brithdir & 6,000 6,000 15.09 1,207.16 240.12 1,462.37 7,009 8,209 24.80 1,207.16 240.12 1,472.08 Buan 3,750 3,750 16.59 1,207.16 240.12 1,463.87 Caernarfon 192,708 198,489 57.54 1,207.16 240.12 1,504.82 8,000 8,000 18.52 1,207.16 240.12 1,465.80 5,772 5,984 20.37 1,207.16 240.12 1,467.65 34,000 34,000 37.29 1,207.16 240.12 1,484.57 10,000 10,000 17.16 1,207.16 240.12 1,464.44 Dolgellau 49,000 50,000 42.25 1,207.16 240.12 1,489.53 20,000 20,000 25.37 1,207.16 240.12 1,472.65 30,000 35,000 31.67 1,207.16 240.12 1,478.95 Ffestiniog 95,000 140,000 83.56 1,207.16 240.12 1,530.84 Y 3,000 3,100 38.41 1,207.16 240.12 1,485.69 16,000 17,000 22.82 1,207.16 240.12 1,470.10 15,000 25,000 58.08 1,207.16 240.12 1,505.36 10,000 11,000 35.79 1,207.16 240.12 1,483.07 16,000 17,000 25.06 1,207.16 240.12 1,472.34 Llanberis 19,000 20,000 26.09 1,207.16 240.12 1,473.37 36,000 38,500 38.90 1,207.16 240.12 1,486.18 19,962 20,201 21.08 1,207.16 240.12 1,468.36 13,000 15,000 8.29 1,207.16 240.12 1,455.57 6,900 8,900 18.18 1,207.16 240.12 1,465.46 4,000 4,000 26.05 1,207.16 240.12 1,473.33 6,500 6,500 23.85 1,207.16 240.12 1,471.13 45,000 50,000 25.53 1,207.16 240.12 1,472.81 Llanfair 7,000 7,000 22.95 1,207.16 240.12 1,470.23 Llanfihangel y Pennant 4,755 5,755 28.19 1,207.16 240.12 1,475.47 4,600 5,300 25.25 1,207.16 240.12 1,472.53 Llangelynnin 6,000 7,800 19.99 1,207.16 240.12 1,467.27 4,000 4,000 29.91 1,207.16 240.12 1,477.19 6,000 7,500 22.31 1,207.16 240.12 1,469.59 38,440 38,440 27.93 1,207.16 240.12 1,475.21 14,160 15,160 17.01 1,207.16 240.12 1,464.29 24,000 25,000 22.26 1,207.16 240.12 1,469.54 8,800 10,000 33.28 1,207.16 240.12 1,480.56 Llanwnda 18,200 18,200 23.59 1,207.16 240.12 1,470.87 Llanycil 3,300 3,300 16.92 1,207.16 240.12 1,464.20 Llanystumdwy 15,000 15,000 17.41 1,207.16 240.12 1,464.69 5,500 5,650 20.64 1,207.16 240.12 1,467.92 Mawddwy 5,250 5,500 16.59 1,207.16 240.12 1,463.87 49,184 49,971 36.15 1,207.16 240.12 1,483.43 6,000 6,000 27.32 1,207.16 240.12 1,474.60 34,000 34,000 45.36 1,207.16 240.12 1,492.64 Pentir 28,883 29,865 29.21 1,207.16 240.12 1,476.49 4,500 5,500 22.92 1,207.16 240.12 1,470.20 53,000 53,000 27.40 1,207.16 240.12 1,474.68 Pwllheli 69,500 70,500 41.46 1,207.16 240.12 1,488.74 10,000 10,000 32.77 1,207.16 240.12 1,480.05 12,000 13,000 25.96 1,207.16 240.12 1,473.24 5,800 6,000 13.62 1,207.16 240.12 1,460.90 Tywyn 55,000 75,000 48.24 1,207.16 240.12 1,495.52 12,000 12,000 22.01 1,207.16 240.12 1,469.29 For further information regarding your Council Tax bill including the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner and local community council precepts please visit www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/counciltax

Gwynedd Council 07 NEWYDDION How to pay your Council Tax bill There are several ways of paying your bill, choose the one that suits you best. If you’re unsure or wish to discuss the best option for you, please contact us. Electronic Council Tax bill As is already the case for many energy, water, telephone and DirectDirect Debit Debit Onlineonline broadband suppliers, you can now choose to receive your Council Phone Gwynedd Visit the secure pages Tax bill electronically rather than on paper through the post. Council’s Council on Gwynedd Council’s Tax Service on: website: Receiving your bill electronically is faster and more convenient. 01286 682 700 www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/pay and It allows you to view your bill as soon as it’s available and keep to arrange for your bill to be paid directly pay using your bank debit or credit card. a copy on file. It’s better for the environment and the public from your bank account. purse as it cuts out the need to pay for sending out paper You can choose one of four payment dates Byby post post bills. available within the monthly payment plan. Send a cheque to Gwynedd Council, These options can be discussed with a Income Unit, Council Offices, Caernarfon, If you’re interested in receiving your Council Tax bill via member of staff when you phone. LL55 1SH. Please quote your reference e-mail, visit: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ElectronicBilling Remember, the easiest and quickest way number on the back of the cheque before You will need your Council Tax reference - noted on any bill that has been sent to you. to pay your tax is by Direct Debit. The posting it, and make it payable to Gwynedd more people choose to pay this way, the Council. Please note that receipts will not less it costs the Council to process the be sent. paperwork. Remember you can go online for free at your AtAt the the Post post Office office by telephone local Gwynedd library or use the free wi-fi By telephone Contact the Council Call: 01766 771 000 to pay on: 01286 682 700 for facilities at any council with your bank debit or credit a plastic swipe card card. Please note that you which allows you to building where you see the will incur an additional pay at your local Post fee with credit card Office with cash, cheque or a bank card. Digital Gwynedd logo payments.

Help is at hand for those who are n All recipients will have to have a Universal Credit bank account struggling to make ends meet Universal Credit is currently n One payment will be made being rolled out in different parts for each household instead of of Britain, and has been available payments for each individual Gwynedd Council’s Council Council Tax Reduction Scheme to some of Gwynedd’s working n It will usually be paid on a Tax, Non Domestic Rates and age residents since 26 October monthly basis, which will require Recovery Teams Council Tax Reduction is a reduction in your Council Tax bill which is assessed by looking at your income, capital 2015. greater control of day to day If you’re having difficulty keeping and who else lives in your home. spending than is needed with up with your Council Tax payments, It will replace housing Benefit weekly or fortnightly payments. please contact Gwynedd Council as You could get a reduction of up to 100% of the amount and some other state benefits, soon as possible as you may qualify payable, and to check if you qualify, free and confidential but people who receive Universal Further information is available for a discount or an exemption. advice is available from Gwynedd Council’s Benefits Team. Credit will still claim Council Tax online: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ Reduction directly from the Council. and choose ‘Benefits and Grants’ on Call: 01286 682 701 to find out, or Telephone the team on: 01286 682 689, email: It is different from current benefits in the homepage and then ‘Universal visit one of Gwynedd’s three Siop [email protected] or call at one of several ways: Credit’. Gwynedd one-stop-shops at Castle Gwynedd’s three Siop Gwynedd one stop shops at Street, Caernarfon; Ffordd y Cob, Castle Street, Caernarfon; Ffordd y Cob, Pwllheli or Pwllheli or Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau. Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau. Help is also available at Llys Gwynedd, Bangor every Tuesday. Even if legal action has been taken, you can still discuss the matter and Further information is available online - visit the Council Free school meals try to come to an arrangement with website www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ and choose ‘Benefits Did you know that your child or call Gwynedd Council’s Benefits the Council. and Grants’ on the homepage, and then ‘Council Tax could be eligible for free school office on:01286 682689 Reduction’. meals if you receive some or email: [email protected] The Recovery Team can be benefits including income if you have any queries. contacted on: 01286 682 706. support, job seekers allowance, On-line benefits calculator child tax credit, pension credit or employment and support Age Cymru Gwynedd & Môn Are you eligible for Housing Benefit or Council Tax allowance? Reduction? Why not visit: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ benefitclaim and use our on-line calculator to find out if Those who receive Housing Tax you qualify? If you do qualify, you can then make an on-line Benefit or Council Tax Reduction application from the same page. from Gwynedd Council won’t need Age Cymru Gwynedd & Môn offers to complete an application form for free, impartial advice to older people free school meals. However, even Citizens Advice Bureau on the benefits they can claim and if you don’t receive those benefits can help in dealing with paperwork. Your local office can help with all your family might still be entitled to sorts of questions you may have free school meals. Contact them on: 01286 677 711 - about money matters. lines open weekdays 9am-5pm - To contact CAB, phone: You can download the application or visit: www.agecymru.org.uk/ 03454 503064 or visit: form from: www.gwynedd.llyw. gwyneddamon www.cabgwynedd.org cymru/free-lunch

08 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION

Gull no-go area If gulls regularly nest or roost in and around your property, you will be well Cast your Be Seagull Savvy aware of the problems they can cause. Their nests can block the gutters, they are Love them or hate them - seagulls are a fact of life, especially in an noisy and can cause a mess. area like Gwynedd where the coast stretches for 187 glorious miles. vote in 2016 Gull deterrent methods can include Gulls have gained a reputation for causing The advice from Gwynedd Council is simple netting, post and wire systems and spike increasing nuisance to people as they go - do not feed the birds and do not leave systems. For more information about about their business, even though their food or rubbish out where gulls scavenge. If deterring gulls, please phone 01766 population in the UK is in fact in decline. you’re eating outdoors, make sure you take 771000. your rubbish with you or put it in a secure Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member bin. for Public Protection, Councillor Dafydd Meurig, said: “There have been reports Waste watchers Did you know… from as far and wide as Caernarfon, Tough reusable seagull-proof sacks are l Some of the most common types Porthmadog and Tywyn of gulls causing a also available if your bin bags are prone of gull here in Gwynedd are the nuisance. to attack. To order yours, call the Herring Gull and the Lesser Black- Council on 01766 771000. backed Gull. “Birds have been swooping down on people to snatch their lunchtime snack; fouling on Gulls have learnt that bins often contain l Like all other wild birds in the UK, buildings, cars and clothes and nesting in food, so try to make sure that your rubbish gulls are protected by the Wildlife the guttering. And of course they provide is stored in a secure bin - make sure your and Countryside Act 1981. It is an a somewhat raucous soundtrack to our brown food waste bin is closed properly offence to intentionally kill or injure everyday lives with their distinctive call. and only put your rubbish out on the correct a gull or to damage an active nest collection day. or eggs. There are three elections on the “I’m pleased that Gwynedd Council’s Public horizon - a poll to choose both your Protection Unit is launching a campaign to l The government will only issue Welsh Assembly Members and Police raise awareness of simple steps we can licenses for control measures to be and Crime Commissioner will be held all take to deter gulls from our towns and taken when there are public health on 5 May; and the European Union villages.” and safety concerns. This does not Referendum will be held on 23 June. include causing a noise nuisance or Do not feed the birds damaging property. To vote on 5 May you will need to While gulls primarily eat fish, crabs and register to vote by 18 April. worms, they are becoming increasingly l RSPB figures suggest the UK Dilwyn Williams, Gwynedd Council’s accustomed to scavenging breeding population of herring gulls for food Chief Executive and Electoral has declined dramatically. However, Registration Officer, said: left by us. evidence shows that the urban and suburban gull is becoming “I would urge everyone who hasn’t more prolific because of increased already done so to register to vote now, it opportunities to scavenge. only takes a few minutes, and once you have done so you can use your vote to influence the democratic process.”

Continued from page 1 “Please bear in mind that you won’t be paper and card automatically registered to vote because you pay Council Tax.” I have lost my recycling in the top Thank you calendar, can I have a Registration is quick and easy - go to: plastic bottles, www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or contact The Council is grateful to residents for new one? pots, tubs, trays Gwynedd Council’s electoral registration playing their part in adapting to the new and cartons in office on 01286 679058 or email: waste collection arrangements which the middle [email protected] prioritises weekly recycling and food waste collections, and where those few On Election Day leftover items that cannot be recycled glass bottles, Unless you have registered for a postal or composted are collected every three jars, cans, or proxy vote, you will need to go to your weeks. tins, foil and designated polling station to cast your aerosols in vote on election day. The details will be “Introducing this huge county-wide change What goes the bottom printed on the polling card, which will be has been a challenge, but thanks to the into which sent to you beforehand. support and patience of local people, bin? we have succeeded and we are now You can also check the location on the Council’s website: seeing significant positive changes,” said What time does the www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru by choosing Councillor John Wynn Jones, the Council’s the brown ‘Council’ tab along the top of Cabinet Member for the Environment. Recycling Centre close? the homepage and click ‘Local Elections’ on the left. “As well as being good news for the How do I report environment, this is good news for the a problem? When is my Polling station locations for some Gwynedd tax payer as the amount of waste collected? Gwynedd wards have changed this landfill tax the Council has to pay to the year: government is falling. l Bangor - Menai Ward - the polling “Gwynedd has led the way nationally station is now Canolfan Penrallt on this important agenda. The fact that (LL57 2EU) councils across the UK are l Bangor - Deiniol Ward - the polling now bringing in similar station is now Neuadd Penrhyn waste collection (LL57 1DT) arrangements shows l that this is the sensible Tywyn - the polling station is now the If you have any questions regarding the new arrangements, visit www. Baptist Church (LL36 9AF) way forward for gwynedd.llyw.cymru/recycling or if you would like to receive advice l managing our waste or discuss a matter with Gwynedd’s recycling team, please phone 01766 Llandderfel, Glanrafon - the polling station is now Glanrafon Café for the sake of future 771000, or e-mail [email protected] generations.” (LL21 0HA)

Gwynedd Council 09 NEWYDDION Thousands flock to new Storiel building Since it opened its doors to the public facility with a shop, café, meeting rooms on 30 January, well over 9,000 people and community exhibition space and huge have visited the renovated Bishop’s credit must be given to all staff, volunteers, Palace building in Bangor which has partners and companies involved in the been transformed to include museum project. exhibitions, contemporary art galleries, a shop, cafe and activities room. “Thousands of people have already visited Storiel to have a look at the various Storiel which is jointly-led by Gwynedd exhibitions and artefacts that tell the story Council and is part of a of Gwynedd through the ages and the major £2.6 million project which ensures modern gallery space that showcases the improved access to the county’s historical work of local artists and the response has and cultural collections. It also aims to been hugely positive.” expand access and engagement through the development of five satellite sites The Storiel project has been funded with across the county which will be located in £1.4 million from the Heritage Lottery Llanberis, Llanbedrog, , Fund, as well as funding from the Welsh Dolgellau and Tywyn. Government, Gwynedd Council, Bangor University, Bangor City Council, The Gwynedd Council Chairman, Councillor Arts Council of Wales, Ashley Family l Gwynedd Council Chairman, Councillor Dilwyn Morgan said: “I was delighted to Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, Dilwyn Morgan at the official opening of Storiel attend the official opening of Storiel. The Cadw, The Wolfson Foundation, Welsh work to transform the historic Bishop’s Slate and Friends of Storiel. l Palace building has ensured a modern The newly renovated Bishop’s Palace building

The first exhibitions at Storiel are showcasing new work by Gwynedd artists, Iwan Gwynn Parry and Vivienne Rickman-Poole. Their work can be seen until 2 April. An exhibition curated by Bangor Football Club Supporters’ Association is also on- show until 23 April which gives an insight into their historic European campaigns.

l The Storiel opening night Storiel is open from Tuesday to Saturday (11am-5pm)

New emergency card for unpaid carers A new emergency card scheme, which could be a godsend for Gwynedd people who care for a relative or friend who is disabled or ill, has been launched.

By joining the free scheme, carers will receive about credit-card sized card to put in their wallet or purse carers and which will notify others that they are a carer. those they are looking Should the carer be involved in an accident or after. be taken ill, the emergency services or hospital staff will recognise the card and will know that “These a vulnerable person is waiting for him or her at cards home, and could be at risk. will be vital if ever there is By joining the scheme, the carer will create a an emergency. Let us hope that emergencies will back-up plan to ensure that someone is available not happen, but if they should, then members of to take care of their friend or family member the emergency services will see the card and it will in an emergency. A call to the social services include vital information that will assist everyone, number on the card will ensure that the necessary including hospital staff.” arrangements are put into action. Councillor Gareth Roberts, Gwynedd Council’s l Councillors Eryl Jones-Williams and Gareth Roberts Councillor Eryl Jones-Williams, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet member responsible for social services with the new cards and registration forms Carers’ Champion said: added: “Nobody wants to think that they will be involved in an accident or be taken seriously ill. For more information about how to get an emergency card, please “The aim of the scheme is to give carers peace of But these things can happen, and this card could contact the Council’s Advice and Assessment Team by phoning mind, ensure the safety of vulnerable people and make real difference to the wellbeing of the person 01286 682888 or by sending an email to [email protected] to provide the Council with up-to-date information you’re looking after in this eventuality.”

10 Gwynedd Council

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