Jackie Maguire, CEO, Meath County Council.

Council passes Budget of over €1 million

At the annual budget meeting of Meath County Council this week, members adopted a budget of €104,642,530, an increase of €3,703,161 on 2016.

Budget 2017 makes for increased spending, with no increase in commercial rates, charges or rents.

The focus of this budget is to ensure the continuation of existing levels of services and make increased provisions for:
Maintenance and improvement of local authority housing units increased by €437,000.
Homeless Services increased by €362,000.
Mobility Aids Housing Grants increased by €200,000 to a total budget in 2017 of €1.5m
Increased provision of €432,000 from Council’s own resources towards county road maintenance
Additional staffing in Community, Environment, LEO office and outdoor areas
Increased provision for Civil Defence, Library Book Purchase and Water Safety
The council’s decision to retain the Local Property Tax at the existing rate rate has been hugely beneficial, enabling financial provision for:

Economic Development and implementation of the actions agreed in the Council’s Economic Strategy - €300,000.
€350,000 has been provided for the continuation and expansion of the Small Business Support Scheme.
Planned programme of road and footpath improvements in Housing Estates - €300,000.
Municipal District Allocation - €480,000.

Presenting the budget to councillors, Jackie Maguire, chief executive, said: “I am delighted to say that this positive budget will enable and improve the current services to the citizens of Meath while providing additional resources in critical and emerging areas. This has been possible through a continued focus on greater efficiencies and increased income from a number of sources. This process will continue into the future and remain our priority for the year ahead.”

The council is also progressing direct construction projects, which are intended to deliver 123 units over the next two years. The budget also has a focus on attracting businesses and creating jobs by supporting businesses through Meath LEO together with initiatives such as the Boyne Valley Food Innovation Hub, Meath Enterprise Week and Retail Excellence Ireland.