Taxing times at value board

THE organisation that compiles and maintains the electoral roll and council tax list is preparing to cut costs.

The Lothian Valuation Joint Board has advised staff that any vacancies arising through retirals or resignations may not be filled.

Assessor Joan Hewton has also launched a review of the service in anticipation of further cuts. Its proposed budget for the 2010/11 financial year is set to decline by 53,789 to 6.37 million.

Donald McGougan, treasurer of the board, said: "Close monitoring of the financial position of the board will be maintained."