City of York Council's 'internal housekeeping' team is suggesting almost £0.5 million in savings on its revenues budget as a contribution to the £2.7m demanded council-wide to help keep the council tax low, fund some £2.3m of service improvements and meet unavoidable pressures such as inflation and wage rises.

The plans are part of the council's proposed 2003/2004 budget, which is up for public consultation this month. It includes suggestions for improving council services and making savings through improved delivery and administration.

Suggestions for the council's 'internal housekeeping' resources and chief executive's directorates include almost £0.5 million savings through administrative efficiency savings, and limited investment, which will generate further savings in future years.

Investment areas include an additional £13,000 for the emergency planning team. The additional funding would help develop business continuity planning across the authority.

The council's scrutiny function could get an additional £20,000 under the proposals, enabling the team to carry out more investigative work into service improvements.

In addition, the budget proposals outline £100,000 to cover the costs of the city council elections in May.

Proposals for one-off growth also include reviewing office accommodation to identify how to best meet the future needs of the council, and spending £25,000 on improving fire standards of council properties.

Councillor Dave Merrett, leader of the council, said: "We have identified almost £0.5 million pounds worth of administrative efficiency savings within the two directorates. If agreed, this saving can be ploughed back into service delivery, improving service provision and reducing the burden on York council tax payers."

Members of the council's cross party corporate finance advisory panel and Councillor Merrett are being asked to provide their views and comments on the proposals at meetings on Monday, January 13.

The council is currently continuing its consultation process over this the new budget. The consultation features a survey of residents on the council's 'people's panel', meetings with representatives of the business community and the city's 'Without Walls' local strategic partnership.

Most local ward committee meetings are also being held this month where budget issues will be listed for discussion.

ENDS