Exeter Observer uncovers the shocking way in which Labour run Exeter City Council.
They have decimated council finances with their city centre vanity project that received no cross-party support. Financing it included £18 million of debt, with a 'business plan' for paying this back completely reliant upon profit-making. However, in reality, their project is making significant losses and is actually hoovering up £2 million a year in subsidies to break even.
Consequently, amongst many other vital services, Exeter Labour slashed the community grants budget from £425k to just £15k, as shown in the graph below. 145 community organisations received grants last year (21-22), with many of these relying on the money to survive. How will these invaluable community groups survive now?
There were, however, exceptions in Labour's budget for two £100,000 bribes for the Labour marginal wards of St Thomas and Heavitree.
They also refused independent budget advice despite agreeing to it last November. There are countless more examples of Exeter Labour's poor transparency, accountability and value for money in decision-making, which is symptomatic of one-party dominated councils.
Enough is enough. Help make a difference and restore our communities' voices by standing, volunteering and voting for more Lib Dem Cllrs for this year's 4th May local elections.
So proud of my Progressive Group colleagues yesterday evening at the Exeter City Council annual council meeting. Empassioned speeches, holding the...
