Community center review teams secure more time to find savings, potentially through fee increases.
Julie Whitelaw gave an update. She said saving plans are delayed and will be discussed in April. The meeting was initially planned for early March.
More time allows for exploring funds. John Sivis, speaking for community councils, welcomed the delay. He noted that center teams had contacted the forum.
Janet Campbell questioned the update, citing assurances from Lawrence Fitzpatrick. He had stated to a council that no centers would close.
Last May, the council presented options. Centers could transfer ownership or sign full repairing leases. Another option was cost recharges.
Few chose the first option, and more chose the second. Even fewer picked the third choice. Most groups opted for other solutions, sending 29 responses in total.
These solutions included establishing new organizations to run the centers. Suggestions also included gradual changes with phased cost introductions.
These ideas don’t currently save enough. Only £570,000 would be saved, far from the £1 million goal. Some may have to raise user fees instead.
The council will engage the community where needed to keep venues running. This commitment applies when groups don’t exist.
Whitelaw stated that leases with recharges are the default. Officers will seek necessary approvals to allow for new lease arrangements.
Further talks are needed to confirm recharge levels and meet saving goals. Charging policies will be checked, along with added income opportunities. Staffing levels will also be reviewed.
Campbell inquired about engagement success and potential hostile responses. Whitelaw replied that 29 out of 31 responded, which she considered positive.
Whitelaw said teams worked hard reviewing options and attending workshops. Further detailed work will be done, and she noted there were positive responses.
Campbell suggested the plans weren’t well thought out. She highlighted the addition of school wings in January and the inclusion of partnership centers in the saving plans.
Sivis emphasized that extra time is vital. Raising charges and finding new groups both take time, making the extension significant.
Center groups want detailed cost breakdowns. Most are volunteers lacking experience in this area, requiring more time for understanding.
Stuart Barrie concurred on the need for more discussion. He stated that management teams also desire this.
Tom Conn attributed the cuts to a lack of funding, blaming the SNP government.
Stuart Sommerville, a reporter, wrote this story.