A major consultation to involve the people of West Sussex in decisions on how taxpayers’ money is spent has been launched today (Thursday September 22) by the County Council. Called ‘Every Pound Counts’, the survey will ask residents and businesses for their opinions on how public money is used. The consultation will also ask people what sort of organisation the County Council should be in the future. Leader of the County Council, Louise Goldsmith, said: “We’re working hard to provide better services for our residents while at the same time making £79 million worth of savings. This inevitably means there will be changes to some of our services. “The consultation is all about getting people involved in these issues and giving them a say on where taxpayers’ money should be spent and potentially where it could be saved.” The online survey will include a budget setting section where people will have the chance to be ‘chancellor for the day’ by allocating points – representing sums of money – to different areas. Details of the survey can be found at Libraries and Help Points or by visiting the County Council website at www.westsussex.gov.uk/everypoundcounts where people can either fill in the survey online or download a copy. People can also request a paper copy of the survey by calling the County Council on 01243 777100. The information gathered during the consultation will be used to help form the County Council’s budget for the next financial year (2012/13). People have until October 19 to take part. The results are expected to be published in November.