Aylesbury Vale IT Update

Aylesbury Vale District Council criticised for the approval of £1.4 million IT project.

09:57 17 February 2019

Aylesbury Vale District Council has recently released a new budget report where it confirmed the approval of the £1.4million IT project that aims to deliver improved online and automated services. It also highlighted the increase of council tax by £5 and the key uncertainties caused by Brexit and James Brokenshire’s unitary decision along with ‘general economic conditions.’  

 

 

Critics of the budget are questioning why the council is spending another £1.48million into its Connected Knowledge project.

 

Anders Christensen, Liberal Democrat leader of the district council, said: “In many ways the budget is an important mile stone for our new unitary council as it marks the last budget for AVDC. This was an opportunity to set the tone and prepare AVDC for the changes ahead.

 

“Instead we got a budget that continues to plan for a medium term that is no longer relevant. We got £1.4m of tax payers money spent on IT projects and internal change that no one knows will be wanted or needed in 15 months time. We got the maximum possible tax increase for the 4th year running.

 

“The budget also continues the double taxation of Aylesbury residents (called Special Expenses) Conservative-run AVDC continues to hold onto Aylesbury’s community assets, like parks and community centres, even though it has been clearly shown the town council can provide such services at better quality and lower cost to tax payers.

 

Cllr Howard Mordue, cabinet member for finance and resources, said: “Connected Knowledge is our digital strategy that puts the customer at the heart of our service delivery. (More information about the strategy can be found at: www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/technology-strategy)

 

“The work that has been delivered to date has enabled AVDC to deliver improved online and automated services, including using artificial intelligence to assist staff in answering customer queries quicker and more accurately.

 

“Delivering improved services enables AVDC to meet customer needs and increasing service expectations.

 

“In addition, by implementing more adaptive and innovative technology, we have enabled our staff to be more flexible in their working patterns and to work where they need to work.