Douglas Borough Council is to hold a special meeting of the Council on Wednesday January 26 to set the rate levy for the 2011-2012 financial year. At the meeting Council Leader David Christian JP will present his Annual Report and Budget speech. Councillor Christian said: ‘I anticipate vigorous debate. With the continuing economic downturn this Council is facing challenging times on an unprecedented scale. Financial pressures such as Isle of Man Government cuts to our agency funding agreements, the rise in VAT, wage issues, increases in fuel and vehicle excise duties and Manx Electricity Authority tariffs, along with a raft of other factors beyond our control, demand that we act with resolve and clarity of vision. Long-term difficulties require long-term and often painful solutions if we are to achieve savings yet maintain a quality service to the ratepayers of Douglas.’ Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting which will take place in the Council Chamber of Douglas Town Hall starting at 10.30am Ends