Welcome

The importance of finding ways of providing more for less while continuing to safeguard our frontline services is important during these difficult times. With this in mind the Council Tax increase for next year will be 1.9% - the lowest for forty years - the second lowest of all County Councils. The financial forecast debated at a County Council meeting projects a similar rise in council tax in 2010/11. To find out more turn to pages 8-9, where I answer those all-important questions about this year’s Council Tax and budget.

Our efforts to secure the best deal for our residents have now received the highest accolade after a rigorous assessment by the Audit Commission. Hampshire has been awarded the top overall four star rating for performance for a seventh consecutive year, while also being categorised as ‘improving strongly’ – raising our score to the highest level possible.

The Audit Commission has also awarded the County Council the highest rating for value for money, praising our ‘strong track record in delivering efficiency savings’ and we will continue to look for further improvements and savings in order to continue to offer the best quality services we can, within the resources we have available.I hope you enjoy this edition of Hampshire Now.

Councillor Ken Thornber, CBE, Leader of Hampshire County Council.