First the arguments, then your chance to join the debate.
The Day the Roof Fell In
In California last year voters chose to cut local taxes - and local services. Here in Britain, local government is feeling the wind of change as a new administration, pledged to cutting waste, makes its presence felt.
On film, Brass Tacks reports on the way councils are coping with the problems of maintaining services with a declining income.
In Cheshire, for example, the effects of existing economy cuts are easy enough to see - a closed children's home, a collapsed ceiling in the council offices.
Live in the studio, the advocates of economy come face-to-face with those whose jobs are at stake and whose role is in question. Introduced by Eric Robson
Research CHRISSIE MAHER. JACKIE SPRECKLEY Producer CHRIS WALMSLEY Editor ROGER LAUGHTON BBC Manchester
If you want to take part in the Brass Tacks debate, either phone a participating BBC radio station immediately after the programme (details on air and on Local Radio pages of RADIO TIMES) or write to Return Call, Brass Tacks. BBCtv Oxford Road, Manchester M60 1SJ