The first phase of the DOLGE programme entailed scrutinising an inherited budget, finding savings and efficiencies.
The second phase, to which the strategy refers, will be delivered across the authority, embedding actions and principles to achieve the best outcomes for Kent’s residents.
The aim of the strategy is to create a leaner, more targeted, and effective council where services KCC is required to deliver by law, as well as those delivered on top of that, are provided in the most efficient way.
“This is not about wielding a chainsaw or a salami-slicer, but about helping the authority to find and implement sensible, pragmatic solutions where efficiency is at the core.”
KCC’s Cabinet Member for Local Government Efficiency and Reorganisation, Chris Hespe, said: “We set up DOLGE to make essential savings and halt spending that was not delivering the best value for people living and working in Kent. We implemented tough spending controls and the authority managed to make significant savings, reduce long-term debt and set a council tax rate lower than in the previous 12 years.
“This is not about wielding a chainsaw or a salami-slicer, but about helping the authority to find and implement sensible, pragmatic solutions where efficiency is at the core.
“With the administration now managing its own budget, the DOLGE programme can shift to a more collaborative approach. DOLGE will continue to seek economies, identify savings opportunities, and value for money for Kent residents.
“DOLGE is about ensuring that the culture is one where all staff are conscious of all spend and the need to do it carefully, fully aware it is residents’ money they are spending.”
ENDS
