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NEWYDDION Council News Spring 2015 Issue 46 www.gwynedd.gov.uk 01766 771000 @cyngorgwynedd cyngorgwyneddcouncil

In this edition… Gwynedd’s green revolution: next stop Gwynedd’s recycling revolution is reaching Meirionnydd this spring following a highly successful roll out of the new waste collection arrangements to 15,000 households in Dwyfor last October. l Could you become a foster carer? - Page 3 The work of distributing the purpose built “Cartgylchu” recycling cart to households in Meirionnydd has now started and it is expected that all suitable homes in the area will have received their cart by the summer.

Made up of three blue boxes on wheels into which recyclable materials can be conveniently ‘posted’ through a slot on each box - paper and card in the top; plastic bottles, pots, tubs, trays and cartons in l The Meirionnydd Cartgylchu roll out get’s underway in the middle and glass bottles, jars, cans, tins, foil and aerosols in the bottom - the Cartgylchu can simply be wheeled out to the kerbside ready for the Environment Cabinet Member, Councillor John Wynn Jones. l Council Chairman’s year of fund Council’s weekly recycling collection. As part of the changes, later on this spring changes will be raising - Page 3 “The Cartgylchu system has proved to be introduced to the left over waste collection (the green wheeled bin or three black bags) for the Meirionnydd area. extremely popular in helping thousands of A glossary of key words used on the Dwyfor residents to make full use of the Council’s Welsh side of this paper can be found weekly household recycling collections. I’m Turn to page 5 to find out at www.gwynedd.gov.uk/news If you sure it will prove to be just as popular with the more about these changes are reading Newyddion online, you people of Meirionnydd,” said ’s can get quick translations of key words (highlighted in yellow) by clicking on the word itself.

If you would like Newyddion Gwynedd Savings strategy buys time to on mp3 or in another language or format, please phone 01766 771000. carefully plan difficult decisions Newyddion Gwynedd is produced on 100% recycled paper. When Once again this year Gwynedd Council will have to contend with receiving far less “During our recent ‘Gwynedd Challenge’ you’ve finished reading this money than it needs to run local services in 2015/16, as a result of further huge cuts public consultation, over 1,700 local newspaper please recycle it. in the funding from the Government. people gave us their views on the two biggest issues the Council has ever faced With around three quarters of the money the shortfall by £8.7 million leaving £4.5 - unprecedented cuts to our budget and Gwynedd has available to run local services million that will have to be addressed in the rapidly increasing demand for some a further 12 months. coming directly from central government, other ways. key services,” said Gwynedd Council’s and with local demand for services such Resources Cabinet Member, Councillor Effectively we are buying ourselves a year as care for older residents growing A Council Tax increase of 4.5% - which Peredur Jenkins. of breathing space in which to wring out significantly, the pressure on the Council will see a Band D Gwynedd household any remaining efficiency savings, to discuss budget is becoming increasingly acute. paying an extra 96p a week - will reduce “Two things were clear from the response longer term options with local people and to this remaining gap by £2.5 million, with - local people say that they understand plan ahead carefully. For the 2015/16 financial year, the funding the Council addressing a further £2 million and appreciate the critical financial gap facing Gwynedd Council stands at without making service cuts in 2015/16. position facing the Council and that they “It should be stressed however that this does £13.2 million with £7.1 million of this arising want us to continue to do everything not in any way take away from the fact that from a reduction in the grant Gwynedd Eventually, this £2 million may unfortunately possible to avoid cutting services. the total funding gap that remains for the receives from the Welsh Government. have to be found from service cuts in the period between now and 2017/18 continues future. However, by using £2 million of the “We have listened carefully to what to be estimated at £34 million. Given this As has been the case for a number of Council’s general balances to fund the gap Gwynedd people have said, and in stark situation, it is inevitable that service cuts years, the Council is doing everything for 2015/16 only, the authority has given response we have put in place a series will unfortunately be needed from April 2016 possible to reduce this sum by finding more itself time to consult in detail with residents of one-off measures that will allow us to onwards.” efficient and cost effective ways of working on these future cuts. continue to avoid outright service cuts for to limit the need for service cuts. Meeting the Gwynedd Challenge - turn to pages 6 - 7 to find out Gwynedd’s 2015/16 budget in a nutshell - turn to So far, for 2015/16 alone, Gwynedd’s how the Council is responding to what you told us during the recent pages 8-9 to find out what you and your family get for efficiency drive has successfully reduced county-wide Gwynedd Challenge consultation. your money from Gwynedd Council. Spring 2015 NEWYDDION Newyddion Gwynedd Message from the Leader The future of the in Gwynedd and in the rest of as it happens is a subject of a wide- ranging discussion There’s no need to wait for the next and attracts a host of edition of Newyddion Gwynedd to keep ideas about what needs up with the latest news from the Council. to be done. Whilst every constructive Thousands of local people already receive suggestion from the latest news about Gwynedd Council organisations and and local services daily by following the individuals can contribute towards Council’s social media accounts. ensuring a positive l Councillor Dyfed Edwards speaks to some of the future for the language, children who attended the recent jamboree in Bangor To keep up with the latest developments there is sometimes - everything from new local services to a danger that we events and severe weather complicate the situation and forget the I was particularly pleased therefore to updates follow: fundamental objective, which is to create attend the Bangor Area Primary Schools new Welsh speakers. Jamboree recently to join in the celebrations @CyngorGwynedd on Twitter with around 350 children, teachers and CyngorGwyneddCouncil on Facebook Historically, Gwynedd Council has seen parents. It was a great experience to be part @CyngorGwynedd on Instagram the role of schools as crucial in the work of the fun and excitement and the children’s of sustaining the Welsh language in enthusiasm was a joy to see. the county. For over 40 years we have implemented a policy of putting the Welsh The Language Charter encourages children language at the heart of our network of to use Welsh not only in the classroom but schools – in the classroom and beyond. also socially, whatever their background or their community’s linguistic pattern may be. Hop into Gwynedd It is no exaggeration to say that the This of course is not an easy task, even in history of the Welsh language in Gwynedd a county like Gwynedd where the Welsh would be very different were it not for the language is seen and heard around us daily. events this spring magnificent work that takes place in our I do believe however that the Charter’s schools, the marvellous commitment of our success is that the children and young teachers, and the support of governors and people themselves are champions for the AprilApril JuneJune parents. Undoubtedly, the education system Welsh language in the positive and natural in Gwynedd – from our language centres way. 5 - Triathlon , Pwllheli. 7 - Bala Middle Distance Tri, Y Bala. to our secondary schools – has produced a Sprint Triathlon with distances achievable A great race set in the stunning and new generation of Welsh speakers, and so We all have an opportunity to play our for most including a 400m swim, 20km beautiful National Park and voted as one ensuring a future for Welsh as a community part in creating an opportunity for a new cycle race and 5km run. of the ten toughest races in the UK. It’s language in our county. generation of Welsh speakers, by providing www.plasheli.org an ideal race for someone preparing for encouragement, support and inspiration to Ironman with a 2000m swim in Llyn Tegid, The key importance of the education others. But above all, we will be breathing 6 - Eisteddfod Uwchmynydd. a 80km cycle race and a 10km run along system’s ability to ensure a future for the new life to the Welsh language by speaking Ysgol Crud-Y-Werin, from 4pm. the lake. Welsh language led to Gwynedd Council’s it. A heartfelt thanks to the schools of www.wrecsamtri.org.uk/High5 decision to establish a Welsh Language Gwynedd for the inspiration and for the 25 - Lend me your ears, Powis Hall, Charter for the county’s primary schools. experience of seeing a new confidence in Bangor. 13 - Dysynni Trail Fest. the language among tomorrow’s generation A North Wales conference for individuals A flat, fast scenic course awaits runners This plan is now embedded throughout in our own special county. and families with hearing loss. at the inaugural Dysynni Trail Fest with a Gwynedd and the work of teachers, [email protected] 01248 382255 series of four races ranging from 1.45km governors and the children themselves is Fun Run, to a 5, 10 & 15km. bearing fruit. The Welsh Government is now Maymay www.wats-on-events.com encouraging Wales’ other counties to adopt Councillor Dyfed Edwards the Charter’s principles. Gwynedd Council Leader 4 - Agricultural Show, Nefyn. 13-21 - Festival, Criccieth. www.sioenefynshow.com Spectacular array of musical performances ranging from choirs to jazz. 8-10 - All Wales Boat Show, Pwllheli. www.cricciethfestival.co.uk A unique festival of water-based activities attracting over 100 exhibitors and on Don’t lose your vote in 2015 average 3,500 visitors including watersports automatically registered enthusiasts and those that wish to get on With the Westminster elections less because they pay the water or soak up the action. than two months away, Gwynedd Council is encouraging any local Council Tax, but www.allwalesboatshow.com residents not yet registered to vote, to this isn’t the case make sure that they’re on the register as everyone must 16-17 - Slateman Triathlon, . come the 7 May poll. officially register. It’s Trail triathlon consisting of a full and sprint a simple process option. The event showcases the beauty Remember, if you’re not registered you to register to vote of Gwynedd and with its European festival won’t have a chance to have your say in and only takes a few feel; the Slateman gives all competitors electing MPs for the Arfon and Dwyfor minutes.” and spectators alike the chance to have a Meirionnydd constituencies. great all round race experience. n Slateman Triathlon, Llanberis To make sure that you have a vote in the www.SnowdoniaSlateman.com Dilwyn Williams, Electoral Registration Westminster elections, please register Officer for Gwynedd Council, said: before the 20 April, 2015 deadline. For more information about other events and activities in Gwynedd, and to tell us about Registering is quick and simple, just visit: an event go to: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/events “I would urge anyone not yet registered to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, or contact You can also find out more about what’s happening in the county by following: vote to do so as soon as possible. Gwynedd Council’s electoral registration @CyngorGwynedd on Twitter and ‘like’ the Council on Facebook - office on:01286 679058 or www.facebook.com/CyngorGwyneddCouncil “Some people may think that they’re [email protected]

02 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2015 A busy year for the Council Chairman As his year as chairman of Gwynedd Council draws to a close, Councillor Dewi Owen from looks back at a busy 12 months.

Councillor Owen said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the job and it has been a great honour to represent the Council. featuring the Welsh Three Tenors and the Oakley Youth Band. “During my time as Chairman, I have been able to support the Hope House Marking the end of his term in office, charity, which helps children from all over Councillor Dewi Owen will host a service at Gwynedd. I decided to support this cause St Peter’s Church, Aberdyfi on Sunday, 26 after reading in the press about the good April at 2 o’clock. work it does.” Councillor Owen added: “The Chairman’s During his year in office, Councillor Owen Service hasn’t been held in Gwynedd was able to combine his support for this for a number of years and I’m pleased to worthy cause and his passion for promoting resurrect it. Local people will be taking part local produce when he held a charity and all are welcome.” breakfast on his farm, in conjunction with the Farmers’ Union of Wales. If you would like to make a donation to Councillor Owen’s designated charity The highlight of the year took place earlier Hope House, please contact Sian Ellis this month with a grand charity concert held Williams on 01286 679666 or email: l The stars of the Chairman’s gala concert at , again in aid of Hope House [email protected]

Could you become Thirty five years of An inspiration at 21 golden memories Stephanie Lomas from Age was no restriction for Rosemary Bethel is the a foster carer? Duggan from Bangor, who continued to be youngest a foster carer well into her eighties. She has registered Raising children is the most important job anyone could ever recently retired after 35 years, taking in more foster carer have - any parent will tell you. But if the parents or extended family than 40 youngsters and even young mothers in Gwynedd, are unable to care for a child or young person, what happens to them? and their babies. at the tender age of 21. There are currently 96 foster carers registered in Gwynedd. They are the un-sung Mrs Duggan said: “I enjoyed it and will miss it l Stephanie Lomas heroes of our society, willing to take a child into their homes at the drop of a hat, terribly. I still get letters, cards and photographs Her parents, to look after them for a few hours or to raise them for weeks or months at a time. from many of them and some come to visit Brian and Kath me. It’s nice to keep in touch with them and to Lomas are also registered foster carers Here, Newyddion Gwynedd speaks to three sets of foster carers about their very remember them. I know I will never lose touch and this is what inspired Stephanie to put different experiences. with some of them. herself forward to offer respite placement for children. “It has been hard work all of these years, Silver service for Gwynedd’s children especially as some of the children have had Having worked with children as a classroom Having a sense of humour and to take each child as he or she comes difficult and unstable times and I’ve had to help assistant Stephanie had a natural interest has been key for Victor and Glenys Chocalingum from , who them learn how to live. But it has been very in children and becoming a foster carer have decided to retire from being foster carers after a quarter of a rewarding work. appeared to be a natural progression for her. century of service. “I would encourage Stephanie said: “I had never thought Glenys said: “There must have been 50 or 60 children who have stayed anyone who is that I would be considered suitable to with us - some for just a couple of hours, others for months and years. The interested in foster children because of my age and youngest was a six hour-old baby.” becoming a foster also because I do not have experience carer to go ahead of bringing up my own children. But it Victor added: “The important thing was always make sure the child felt safe with it and to was explained to me that this was not an and comfortable. persevere even if obstacle. things don’t always The only thing that go well. It’s not was important to us “I love being in the company of children and always going to be after seeing the difference my parents made was that the child perfect and you have for children I started to make enquiries and was happy and not to accept each child am now thrilled to be a registered foster afraid. We always l Rosemary Duggan as an individual.” carer myself.” treated all the children as if they were our own.”

The couple said Could you help a child in need? that they would Councillor Mair Rowlands, Gwynedd “Without carers, many young people would encourage others Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and have to move away from their home, extended to consider Young People, said: “There are currently family, friends and school to be brought up”. fostering, and their l Victor and Glenys Chocalingum 190 children in foster care in the county. own daughter has If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, (centre) with Gwynedd Council social Gwynedd Council’s Social Services is been a foster carer contact Gwynedd Council’s Fostering Team on: workers Margaret Ewing and Paul Jones always looking for more people who are for 15 years. interested in taking up this all important role. 01286 682660 or [email protected]

Gwynedd Council 03 Spring 2015 NEWYDDION

Savings that make sense Gwynedd Council’s Carbon Management air balloons or 45,918 double decker buses. Plan was adopted in 2010 to reduce the Indeed, this is a reduction of 25% compared carbon footprint of the Council’s activities - with the Council’s carbon emissions back in and to save energy costs. 2005.

By now, our efforts to reduce energy We hope to further increase these savings consumption and CO2 emissions have led to over the next few years by continuing to financial savings of £600,000 a year from our upgrade equipment, to make our buildings electricity and more efficient, fuel bills, and and to save 7,653 tons of energy by using CO2 per year. or our buildings That’s enough and equipment l carbon dioxide more efficiently. Councillor John Wynn Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member to fill 7,653 hot for the Environment and local member Councillor Gethin 7,653 45,918 Glyn Williams speak to leisure centre staff about the savings Pavilion Leisure Centre delivers huge energy savings A drive to save energy at a Gwynedd Barmouth has managed to lower its use minimise any potential energy wastage. Making significant savings on their energy leisure centre has proved to be a major of gas and electricity by more than half - Duty manager Craig Papirnyk said: “When bills has allowed the leisure centre to success, leading to a growth in its leading to a remarkable 57.7% reduction in we got our budget three or four years ago, invest money in other things, which in turn popularity and the income it generates. its CO2 emissions. it became obvious we had to save money. has resulted in a big increase in people becoming members. Since 2005, the Pavilion Leisure Centre in The thousands of pounds saved on energy “We cannot expect to make a massive bills have been invested in improving the income. We reach our income target each Craig added: “When we discovered we facilities for customers - a move which has year, but what we try to do is spend less were saving around £20,000 a year on led to a 30% increase in membership. on other things - and our use of electricity, our utility bills, we realised we could gas and water is something that is under then invest in fitness equipment, which The Pavilion Leisure Centre is one of many our control. encourages more people to use the buildings across Gwynedd to undergo key building. improvements over the past five years to “We make sure the printers are on power improve energy efficiency. As part of this save mode, that the computers are off “Over the last couple of years, we’ve program a new streamlined boiler system, when they’re not needed. If the sauna isn’t invested about £10,000 in the gym on more efficient lighting and a new heat being used, it isn’t switched on. various machines that our customers are regulation system were installed at the demanding. l Councillor John Wynn Jones, Pavilion. “Every hour, we do an internal building Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member check and, if we know there’s nobody in “Whilst we’re saving on one hand, we’re for the Environment and Ffion Another factor in the success of the the building, then the lights shouldn’t be actually starting to make money on the Williams, from the Council’s Energy Pavilion Leisure Centre in saving energy on. There are switches on the way into the other, because we’re getting more and Saving Team, take a look at the new has been the commitment of staff, who can rooms and the customers are more than more people through the door.” streamline boiler at the leisure centre now manage their heating system online to happy to turn them on themselves.”

Museum for the future The old Bishop’s Palace in Bangor – or the historic building, and Councillor Mandy Town Hall – will soon be ready as the new Williams-Davies, the Gwynedd Council home for the Gwynedd Museum and Art Cabinet Member for the Economy and the Gallery. Arts, visited the site recently.

Most of the renewal work is complete at the “This is an exciting development that will historic building, which dates back to the 16th provide a cultural centre for the whole of century, and it is now being refurbished to Gwynedd as well as restoring one of Bangor’s house a wealth of fascinating collections. oldest buildings to its former glory,” she said.

On completion, the new centre which will open “I’m certain that it will become a popular in the autumn will boast two gallery spaces, attraction that will contribute greatly to three museum spaces, a large learning space improving our understanding of our county’s and a cafe and shop. rich history, as well as a boost to our local economy. The £2.6 million scheme - led by Gwynedd Council with financial help from the Lottery “I’m delighted to see the work progressing so Heritage Fund and other organisations - is well, and look forward eagerly to seeing the aimed at creating a cultural centre for the museum opening in the autumn.” whole of Gwynedd, which will provide an insight into our county’s history. For more information please visit www.amgueddfagwyneddmuseum.org It will also enable collections of Bangor s University artefacts to be exhibited to the Councillor Mandy Williams-Davies, public. Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member for the Economy, with Esther Roberts, Gwynedd Photographer Alan Whitfield has been Museum and Art Gallery Project Manager, capturing the changes taking place at the on the site on the new development.

04 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2015

Arfon - the final piece in Meirionnydd’s going green the green Gwynedd jigsaw

Continued from page 1 In the Arfon area it is expected that the Cartgylchu Remember - there will be no change to the weekly recycling carts will be distributed to suitable The one other change to the way household Recycling (Blue Boxes / Cartgylchu) and Food households and changes made to leftover waste waste is collected in Meirionnydd relates to Waste (Brown Bin) Service collections (the green wheeled bin or three black leftover waste collections - the green wheelie bags) during the second half of bin or three black bags for those few items 2015. These changes will like polystyrene and polythene that can’t be publicised via Newyddion be put out for collection weekly with the Gwynedd, the local media and recycling and food waste collections. the Council’s Twitter account - @CyngorGwynedd From June 2015 onwards, leftover waste and Facebook account that cannot be recycled will be collected ‘CyngorGwyneddCouncil’ nearer every three weeks rather than every the time. fortnight in Meirionnydd. This change will bring Meirionnydd into line with the Blaenau arrangements that have been operational in Dwyfor since the autumn of 2014. Bala A few weeks before the change to the leftover “The new arrangements have worked waste collection is introduced, all Meirionnydd very well in the Dwyfor area, and the co- households will receive an information pack operation of local people was crucial to through the post containing: the success,” said Councillor John Wynn Jones. n a new recycling, food waste, garden waste and leftover waste collection calendar; “We were able to deal with any teething “Information packs with full details about problems quickly and efficiently - and the changes will be sent to all n a leaflet explaining exactly what materials we will ensure that the same happens in Meirionnydd households in advance. can be put out for the weekly recycling Meirionnydd. If you have any further questions or and food waste collection; concerns after reading “For example, as in Dwyfor, special weekly these packs, n a letter explaining how you can contact nappy collections will be on offer for I would the Council if you have any queries or Meirionnydd households with young urge you to Tywyn concerns about the change to the left children as well as extra support for larger contact over waste service; households. us.” Well done Dwyfor! Thanks to the support of local people, At the same time, all residents who recycle - the new waste collection arrangements wherever they live in the county - are saving rolled out to 15,000 homes in Dwyfor a the Gwynedd taxpayer tens of thousands few months ago have already resulted of pounds - money that is helping to pay for in significant reductions to the amount other important front-line Gwynedd Council of waste Gwynedd Council sends to be services in these difficult financial times. buried in landfill sites. Data released for November 2014 - the first By making the most of the Council’s weekly month of the new arrangement in Dwyfor - recycling and food waste collections and shows that: avoiding the temptation to throw material that can be composted or recycled in the 3 the average Dwyfor household placed left over waste bin, Dwyfor residents are 22% less waste in their left over waste helping the Council to reach the goal of bin (waste that is sent to landfill) in making Gwynedd the most environmentally November 2014 than in November l Ysgol pupils are recycling - are you? friendly county in Wales. 2013 - 4.6kg per week in November 2014 as compared to 5.9kg per week in placed to hit the Welsh Government’s from households with young children. Fact - It is forecast that the changes November 2013; expectation that all councils recycle 58% of all the waste they collect by March 2016 “From our experience in Dwyfor, I’m introduced to the 15,000 households in 3 the amount of recyclable materials and then 64% by 2020. confident that we can bring about an equally Dwyfor alone will result in a financial collected in Dwyfor as part of the weekly smooth transition in Meirionnydd and then to saving of around £100,000 recycling collection (blue box) increased Gwynedd Council’s Environment Cabinet Arfon before the end of the year. for Gwynedd Council from 169 tonnes in November 2013 to Member, Councillor John Wynn Jones said: in landfill charges and 200 tonnes in November 2014; “The environmental case for recycling is associated costs “I would like to take this opportunity to thank obviously beyond doubt. The financial case 3 the amount of food waste collected in the people of Dwyfor for the way they have is also becoming clearer by the day, as the Dwyfor as part of the weekly food waste responded to this change. changes that have been introduced are collection (brown bin) increased from 56 already resulting in some significant savings Fact - Gwynedd Council is facing tonnes in November 2013 to 71 tonnes “The success of the transition in Dwyfor for the council, and of course, for taxpayers. a massive financial shortfall of in November 2014. has clearly shown the importance of around £50 million between involving local people from the beginning “According to our latest estimates, the now and 2017/18 as a result As a result, the amount of waste that is and listening to their concerns. The detailed changes introduced in Dwyfor - an area with of government spending recycled or composted for the whole of information packs and our biggest ever 15,000 households - will save the Gwynedd cuts. Any savings brought Gwynedd has increased from 54% in March social media campaign on Facebook taxpayer around £100,000 a year. On this and Twitter helped explain the changes basis it is reasonable to assume that the about by the changes in 2014 to 57.2% in November 2014. to as many people as possible. Of equal 19,000 households in Meirionnydd and the waste collection can help save With similar changes being rolled out in importance was the way we responded 26,000 households in Arfon will increase other vital local services. Meirionnydd in June and in Arfon during to people’s concerns, for example, by this annual saving to around £414,000 for the second half of 2015, Gwynedd is well organising weekly collections of nappies the whole of Gwynedd.”

Gwynedd Council 05 Spring 2015 NEWYDDION

1 Meeting the Gwynedd Challenge Regular readers will recall that the Council launched the first part of the Gwynedd Challenge public consultation in the autumn 2014 edition of Newyddion Gwynedd. In that edition, we explained in detail:

n how and on what Gwynedd Council Since then, more spends its budget; than 1,700 local people have taken n how around 57% of Council funding is part in the Gwynedd currently spent on Education and Adult Challenge debate Care alone and how spending on these and presented their l Gwynedd Challenge drop in session two service areas is set to increase views and opinions dramatically over the coming years; on the services that they value the most Between September n why a combination of cuts in the funding and the services the Council receives from the government which they believe and December 2014: to pay for our local services coupled with could possibly be increasing demand will leave the Council delivered differently 1,376 local people responded to communities the Gwynedd Challenge survey; facing a total shortfall of around in the future. across the county. £34 million between 2015/16 and 2017/18; Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for “The valuable comments collected are 280 people attended nine drop-in n why the amount of money Gwynedd Resources, Councillor Peredur Jenkins already helping us to plan for the difficult sessions and eight public meetings in Council spends on services for older said: “I would like to sincerely thank all decisions ahead, and we will be inviting communities across Gwynedd; people is set to increase massively over the people who took part in the first part local people to once again provide feedback the coming years; of the Gwynedd Challenge by filling in over the coming months before the Council 48 individuals representing the a questionnaire at their local library or makes an informed final decision on the Council’s public, voluntary and n why the Council must act now to identify online or by attending one of the public changes that we will have to implement business sector partners took part in and deliver new ways of working. meetings and nine drop-in sessions held in from April 2016 onwards.” a special workshop session. 2 The Gwynedd Challenge - what you told us…

We asked: We asked: Do you understand 8% Which three Gwynedd Council services do you value the most? the financial 5% challenge facing You said (top 5 answers noted): the Council? REFUSE & Care RECYCLING COLLECTION You said: 600 EDUCATION 500 HIGHWAYS & 87% said they 400 MUNICIPAL understood, 5% 300 LIBRARIES & said they did not 87% ARCHIVES understand and 200 8% did not note 100 587 529 490 361 190 an answer.

We asked: Do you have any possible suggestions on how the Council can We asked: make substantial savings? A total of 1,116 responses were received Given that the Council must make cuts to the budget, which services would you be willing to see reduced in your area? You said (top 5 answers noted):

CUT You said (top 5 answers noted): STAFFING LEVELS CUT 300 NO SERVICE NUMBER OF 250 CUTS 250 COUNCILLORS, salAries & REDUCE REFUSE & 200 200 HIGHWAYS & EXPENSES REFUSE & MERGE MUNICIPAL RECYCLING COUNCILS / 150 RECYCLING 150 COLLECTION MORE JOINT REDUCE LIBRARIES & LEISURE COLLECTION 100 ARCHIVES 100 WORKING STREET LIGHTING 50 50 228 141 114 84 84 282 154 86 65 41

To view the key findings from part one of the Gwynedd Challenge Consultation, please visit www.gwynedd.gov.uk/gwyneddchallenge

06 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2015

3 ...We’re listening and we’re responding

Residents who responded to the Gwynedd Challenge survey or who attended the drop-in sessions and public Libraries 3 meetings came up with over 1,100 suggestions of how the Council may be able to reduce the amount of money it spends on delivering local services. The Council simply cannot afford to continue to run the library service in the same way as it has done in the past and Every suggestion received will be looked at, but here’s a flavour of what the Council is already doing to respond is looking to find new ways of sustaining to the main points raised: the service.

Being more efficient to 3 12 month service cuts freeze 3 Reducing staff levels 3 No decisions will be made or changes avoid service cuts One-off measures have been put in 254 less full time posts - there will introduced before an independent public Over 200 extra plans have been place so that no service cuts will have to be a minimum reduction of 254 full time consultation of your views on the best identified to save money by working be made during 2015/16. This will allow Council posts between 2015 and 2018. way forward is carried out. All comments more efficiently. This will deliver around more time for the Council to maximise This is in addition to the significant staff and suggestions received about the efficiency savings and work with local libraries service as part of the Gwynedd £13 million of efficiency savings cuts already made. people to identify the least painful Challenge will be passed on and fully on top of the £29 million delivered over and most responsible way of making considered as part of this exercise. the past five years. To minimise the impact on individuals targeted service cuts. and keep redundancy costs to a minimum, staffing levels are being To receive the latest updates, register reduced by freezing recruitment, your details at: Education 3 merging responsibilities and not filling www.gwynedd.gov.uk/ vacant posts. RegisterGwyneddChallenge

Thinking creatively to 3 minimise cuts in care

In line with the wishes of respondents, education - which makes up 38% of the Council’s entire budget - will continue to be given significant protection compared with other Council services. Eco Street lights save money 3 Senior officer posts cut 3 New environmentally friendly LED Whilst all other services (Social From to - the number of street lights that dim or switch off as 16 12 Services, Highways, Leisure Centres, Senior Officers employed by the Council programmed at less busy times of the Libraries etc.) face cuts of between was reduced from 16 to 12 in 2014/15 night are to be rolled-out across the leading to a saving of more than 15% and 20% in their budgets, county. This brand-new technology will £700,000. schools have been set a savings target deliver significant financial savings and that equates to approximately 6% of reduce the Council’s carbon footprint. their total budget. Almost £1 in every £5 of the money Leisure Centres 3 The size of the education budget means Gwynedd Council spends on local The number of managers employed by that schools cannot be exempt from services is spent on caring for the Leisure Service has been reduced the savings process as this would have vulnerable adults and older people and by 60% and further steps are being a massive impact on all other Council this sum is set to increase dramatically. considered to reduce expenditure where services over and above the significant Because of this, radical changes will appropriate. additional savings they are already have to be made to the way care is expected to find. provided in Gwynedd with the focus firmly fixed on helping people to The Council is also working to increase maintain their independence for as long the income generated by leisure centres as possible. by improving the facilities on offer in order to attract and retain customers and to locate other local services in leisure centre buildings. Part two of the 4 Gwynedd Challenge Councillor salaries & expenses / Reducing Councillor numbers Over the coming months the Council Anyone who is interested in taking part will be moving to part two of the can register their details at: Gwynedd Council has no control over Gwynedd Challenge process. www.gwynedd.gov.uk/gwyneddchallenge councillor salaries and expenses nor They will then be notified of the various the number of councillors required as This time local people will have the opportunities to contribute to the process. these decisions are taken on a national opportunity to share their views on level by the Independent Remuneration detailed proposals to deliver savings Details of how to get involved will also be Panel for Wales Local Democracy and before finalised plans are presented to the widely publicised via the local press and Boundary Commission for Wales. Council for a final decision. the Council’s social media accounts.

Gwynedd Council 07 Spring 2015 NEWYDDION What do we get for our Council Tax? During the past year (2014/15), Gwynedd Council spent an average of £1,906 on each and every one of the 121,911 of us who live here. Whilst all Gwynedd families are different, the following gives an idea of what we as residents get for our Council Tax... Care for Adults and Public transport Maintaining and Fire and Older People and safe roads cleaning roads National Park Authority Education

£114 per person or £367 per person or £19,249 on £55 per person £8,232 a year for every average each year on every person mile of road in Gwynedd who receives care or support £730 per person or £5,418 £55 per person per pupil in Gwynedd Economic Development Planning and the Child and Family Environment Care

£29 per person

£121 per person or £17,825 on Homelessness £69 per person average each year on every child who receives care and support

Collecting and recycling our rubbish Getting Gwynedd active £41 per person

Libraries and the arts

£82 per person or £164 a year for every £37 per person Gwynedd household £39 per person

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.

38% 19% 9% 8% 6% 5% 4% 3% 2% 2% 4%

Education Care for Roads Planning, Waste Child and Support to Libraries Fire and Snowdonia Homelessness Economic Other Minor Adults and Older and Collection and Family pay Council and Leisure National Park Development Services People Transport the Environment Care Tax Centres Authority £89.0 £44.7 £20.6 £18.5 £14.8 £11.0 £9.2 £6.7 £5.0 £3.5 £9.3 million million million million million million million million million million million

08 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2015

The 2015/16 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 4.5%, the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner part by 3.44% and the Community, Town or City Council part by an average of 4.6%.

For further information regarding your Council Tax bill including the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner and local community council precepts visit www.gwynedd.gov.uk/counciltax Total COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY GWYNEDD NORTH WALES COUNCIL COUNCIL COUNCIL COUNCIL COUNCIL POLICE AND CRIME TAX 2015/16 PRECEPT PRECEPT (BAND D (BAND D COMMISSIONER (BAND D 2014/15 2015/16 EQUIVALENT) EQUIVALENT) (BAND D EQUIVALENT) EQUIVALENT) Gwynedd’s Aberdaron 8,000.00 8,000.00 15.21 1,161.07 235.44 1,411.72 Aberdyfi 23,218.00 23,334.09 25.05 1,161.07 235.44 1,421.56 2,000.00 2,000.00 17.22 1,161.07 235.44 1,413.73 2015/16 9,500.00 8,500.00 13.83 1,161.07 235.44 1,410.34 Y Bala 16,500.00 16,500.00 21.82 1,161.07 235.44 1,418.33 Bangor 298,949.00 318,949.00 88.40 1,161.07 235.44 1,484.91 budget in a Barmouth 39,400.00 41,760.00 38.19 1,161.07 235.44 1,434.70 7,844.00 7,990.00 24.92 1,161.07 235.44 1,421.43 1,300.00 1,300.00 9.67 1,161.07 235.44 1,406.18 Bethesda 53,552.00 53,495.00 32.73 1,161.07 235.44 1,429.24 nutshell Bontnewydd 12,500.00 14,500.00 33.69 1,161.07 235.44 1,430.20 235.44 n After making efficiency savings of 4,000.00 4,500.00 10.40 1,161.07 1,406.91 6,000.00 15.05 1,161.07 1,411.56 £8.7 million, Gwynedd Council’s Brithdir a 6,000.00 235.44 6,675.00 7,009.00 20.93 1,161.07 235.44 1,417.44 2015/16 budget will be £228 Buan 3,750.00 3,750.00 16.79 1,161.07 235.44 1,413.30 million. This is the sum the 187,142.50 192,707.50 55.94 1,161.07 235.44 1,452.45 Council estimates it will need to pay 18.63 1,161.07 1,415.14 for our local services between April 7,000.00 8,000.00 235.44 2015 and March 2016; 5,772.00 5,772.00 19.58 1,161.07 235.44 1,416.09 Criccieth 34,000.00 34,000.00 37.12 1,161.07 235.44 1,433.63 n £168 million of the Council 10,000.00 10,000.00 17.14 1,161.07 235.44 1,413.65 budget will come from the Dolgellau 49,000.00 49,000.00 41.33 1,161.07 235.44 1,437.84 Government in the form of a grant - 19,000.00 20,000.00 24.97 1,161.07 235.44 1,421.48 this is £7.1 million less than the 27,000.00 30,000.00 27.61 1,161.07 235.44 1,424.12 sum received in 2014/15 and Ffestiniog 76,500.00 95,000.00 56.73 1,161.07 235.44 1,453.24 £13.2 million less than the Y 3,000.00 3,000.00 35.41 1,161.07 235.44 1,431.92 Council needs to keep services at Harlech 16,000.00 16,000.00 21.89 1,161.07 235.44 1,418.40 their current levels; 13,000.00 15,000.00 35.05 1,161.07 235.44 1,431.56 10,000.00 10,000.00 32.92 1,161.07 235.44 1,429.43 n Your Council Tax contributions will Llanbedrog 14,950.00 16,000.00 23.34 1,161.07 235.44 1,419.85 raise a further £58 million; Llanberis 19,000.00 19,000.00 24.87 1,161.07 235.44 1,421.38 n This leaves a sum of £2 million 34,000.00 36,000.00 36.05 1,161.07 235.44 1,432.56 that the Council will finance from 19,962.00 19,962.00 20.74 1,161.07 235.44 1,417.25 balances without resorting to service 13,000.00 13,000.00 7.24 1,161.07 235.44 1,403.75 cuts this year. 6,900.00 6,900.00 14.20 1,161.07 235.44 1,410.71 4,000.00 4,000.00 27.62 1,161.07 235.44 1,424.13 6,000.00 6,500.00 22.97 1,161.07 235.44 1,419.48 45,000.00 45,000.00 22.95 1,161.07 235.44 1,419.46 Further Llanfair 6,500.00 7,000.00 22.48 1,161.07 235.44 1,418.99 Llanfihangel y Pennant 4,325.00 4,755.00 23.20 1,161.07 235.44 1,419.71 explanation 4,500.00 4,600.00 21.45 1,161.07 235.44 1,417.96 Llangelynnin 6,000.00 6,000.00 15.08 1,161.07 235.44 1,411.59 about Council 2,142.00 4,000.00 30.71 1,161.07 235.44 1,427.22 4,500.00 6,000.00 17.92 1,161.07 235.44 1,414.43 Tax and financial Llanllyfni 36,940.00 38,440.00 28.03 1,161.07 235.44 1,424.54 12,660.00 14,160.00 15.89 1,161.07 235.44 1,412.40 details 23,500.00 24,000.00 21.52 1,161.07 235.44 1,418.03 8,800.00 8,800.00 28.94 1,161.07 235.44 1,425.45 Notes explaining Council Tax Llanwnda 18,200.00 18,200.00 24.24 1,161.07 235.44 1,420.75 exemptions, Council Tax discounts and 3,300.00 3,300.00 17.16 1,161.07 235.44 1,413.67 financial information about the Council 15,000.00 15,000.00 17.70 1,161.07 235.44 1,414.21 and the North Wales Police and Crime 5,500.00 5,500.00 20.21 1,161.07 235.44 1,416.72 Commissioner are available on the 4,750.00 5,250.00 15.68 1,161.07 235.44 1,412.19 Council website: Nefyn 48,410.00 49,184.00 35.67 1,161.07 235.44 1,432.18 www.gwynedd.gov.uk/counciltax 5,400.00 6,000.00 28.37 1,161.07 235.44 1,424.88 45.21 1,161.07 If you’d like to receive paper copies 34,000.00 34,000.00 235.44 1,441.72 of these leaflets, or if you’re unsure 28,883.00 28,883.00 29.74 1,161.07 235.44 1,426.25 whether you’re eligible to receive any 4,500.00 4,500.00 18.66 1,161.07 235.44 1,415.17 Council Tax reductions, please contact Porthmadog 53,000.00 53,000.00 27.11 1,161.07 235.44 1,423.62 the Council Tax Department by phoning: Pwllheli 68,500.00 69,500.00 41.01 1,161.07 235.44 1,437.52 01286 682701 or 01286 682708 10,000.00 10,000.00 32.42 1,161.07 235.44 1,428.93 12,000.00 12,000.00 24.38 1,161.07 235.44 1,420.89 5,800.00 5,800.00 13.02 1,161.07 235.44 1,409.53 Tywyn 46,000.00 55,000.00 35.62 1,161.07 235.44 1,432.13 12,000.00 12,000.00 21.11 1,161.07 235.44 1,417.62

Gwynedd Council 09 Spring 2015 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 Phone Gwynedd Visit the secure pages Council Tax bill electronically rather than on paper through the Council’s Council on Gwynedd Council’s post. Tax Service on: website: 01286 682 701 www.gwynedd.gov.uk/pay and pay using Receiving your bill electronically is faster and more or 01286 682 708 to arrange for your bill your bank debit or credit card. convenient. It allows you to view your bill as soon as it’s to be paid directly from your bank account. available and keep a copy on file and is better for the You can choose one of four payment dates Byby post post environment and the public purse as it cuts out the available within the monthly payment plan. Send a cheque to Gwynedd Council, need to pay for sending out paper bills. These options can be discussed with a Income Unit, Council Offices, Caernarfon, If you’re interested in receiving your Council Tax bill member of staff when you phone. LL55 1SH. Please quote your reference via e-mail, visit: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/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 AtA tthe the Post post Office office by telephone local Gwynedd library or use the free wi-fi By telephone Contact the Council on: Call: 01766 771 000 to pay 01286 682 701 or facilities at any council with your bank debit or credit 01286 682 708 for card. Please note that you a plastic swipe card building where you see the will incur a transaction which allows you to surcharge with credit pay at your local Post Office with cash, Digital Gwynedd logo card payments. cheque or a bank card. Help is at hand for those who are struggling to make ends meet Universal Credit The Universal Credit is currently being n One payment will be made for each rolled out in different parts of the UK household instead of payments for each Gwynedd Council’s Council Council Tax Reduction Scheme between now and 2020 and is likely to individual Tax, Non Domestic Rates and start affecting some of Gwynedd’s working Since 1 April 2013 Council Tax Benefit Recovery Teams age residents before the end of 2015. n It will include a payment for rent instead has been replaced nationally by a of money being paid directly to the means tested local scheme called the If you’re having difficulty keeping up It will replace housing benefit and many landlord Council Tax Reduction Scheme. If you with your Council Tax payments, please other benefits. It is different from current are on a low income, and think you may contact Gwynedd Council as soon benefits in several ways: n It will usually be paid on a monthly qualify, free and confidential advice as possible as you may qualify for a basis, which will require greater control is available from Gwynedd Council’s discount or an exemption. n All recipients will have to have a bank of day to day spending than is needed Benefits Team. account with weekly payments. Call: 01286 682 701 or 01286 682 708 to find out, or visit one of Gwynedd’s Telephone the team on: 01286 682 689, three Siop Gwynedd one-stop-shops at email: [email protected] Castle Street, Caernarfon; Ffordd y Cob, or call by one of Gwynedd’s three Siop Pwllheli or Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau. Gwynedd one stop shops at Castle Street, Caernarfon; Embankment Road, Even if legal action has been taken, Pwllheli or Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau. Free school meals you can still discuss the matter and try Surgeries are also held at Llys to come to an arrangement with the Gwynedd, Bangor. Did you know that your child could Council. be eligible for free school meals if you receive some benefits including Online benefits caLculator The Recovery Team can be contacted income support, job seekers allowance, on: or . 01286 682 706 01286 682 707 Are you eligible for Housing Benefit or help child tax credit, pension credit or to pay your Council Tax? Why not visit: employment and support allowance? Age Cymru Gwynedd & Môn www.gwynedd.gov.uk/benefitclaim (formerly Age Concern and use our online calculator to find out? Those who receive Housing Tax Benefit Gwynedd & Môn) If you qualify, you can then fill in the or Council Tax Reduction from Gwynedd claim form online. Council won’t need to complete an application form for free school meals. However, even if you don’t receive those Citizens Advice Bureau benefits your family might still be entitled to free school meals. Age Cymru offer free, impartial advice Your local office can to older people on the benefits they help with all sorts of You can download the application form can claim and can help in dealing with questions you may have from: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/free-lunch paperwork. Contact them on: about money matters. or call Gwynedd Council’s Benefits office 01286 677 711 - lines open weekdays To contact CAB, phone: on: 01286 682689 or email: 9am-5pm - or visit: or visit: 03454 503064 [email protected] if you have any www.agecymru.org.uk/gwyneddamon www.cabgwynedd.org queries.

10 Gwynedd Council