WEST Devon Borough Council has come out top of the South West?s district councils in a tough new Government test on how it manages its finances and gives value for money. Statistics just released by independent local Government watchdog the Audit Commission reveal that West Devon is the best district authority in the South West region in an assessment of how well it uses its resources. The council has been awarded a rating of three out of four by the commission, confirming that it is a well-performing authority. West Devon is the only district, county or unitary council in Devon to achieve a level three score in all five categories of the new Government inspection. Inspectors assessed the council in five areas ? financial reporting, financial management, financial standing, internal control and value for money. They reported several key council strengths: l Clear value for money focus l Excellent track record of obtaining external funding l Clear and effective enthusiasm among councillors and staff to drive forward the local agenda underpinned by local surveys of what is important to residents l Strict systems of financial planning and control to get maximum benefit out of its limited resources Cllr Dick Eberlie, chairman of the council?s strategies and resources committee, said: ?We already knew our finances were well looked after; now we know we are the best. ?This is a very big feather in the cap of the whole council but it is more than that, it is a massive reassurance to the residents of West Devon that the council?s money is being handled properly by staff at all levels, that council tax is not wasted in West Devon, and that every penny received is put to good use in providing quality services to local people.?
