The proposed council tax increase has been a hot topic of discussion among citizens in recent weeks. Many have expressed concerns about the potential burden on their household budgets. However, it is important to understand that this increase is necessary for the betterment of our community and its residents.
The proposed council tax increase is made up of 2.99 per cent in core council tax and a 2 per cent adult social care precept. Let’s break down what this means for the average taxpayer.
The core council tax is the amount paid to the local authority for the provision of essential services such as waste collection, street cleaning, and road maintenance. This increase of 2.99 per cent is in line with inflation and will help to maintain the quality of these services. It is important to note that this is the first increase in core council tax in the past five years, which shows the responsible management of funds by our local council.
The adult social care precept, on the other hand, is a separate charge that goes towards funding social care services for vulnerable adults in our community. This includes services such as home care, residential care, and support for those with disabilities. The 2 per cent increase in this precept will help to bridge the funding gap in adult social care, which has been facing significant budget cuts in recent years.
It is important to understand that the demand for adult social care services is increasing as our population ages. This means that the current level of funding is not enough to meet the growing needs of our community. The 2 per cent increase in the precept will help to ensure that these vital services are not compromised and that our most vulnerable residents receive the care and support they deserve.
Some may argue that a council tax increase is a burden on already stretched household budgets. However, it is important to note that the proposed increase is only a small fraction of the overall council tax bill. In fact, the average household will only see an increase of around £50 per year, which equates to less than £1 per week. This small increase will go a long way in ensuring the continued provision of essential services and support for our community.
Moreover, the increase in council tax is not the only source of funding for our local council. They also receive funding from central government and other sources. The council has been working tirelessly to find ways to generate income and reduce costs in order to lessen the burden on taxpayers. This includes exploring new revenue streams and implementing efficiency measures.
It is also worth noting that the proposed increase in council tax is in line with other local authorities across the country. In fact, many other councils have proposed higher increases in order to meet the growing demand for services. This shows that our local council is being responsible and considerate in their decision-making.
In conclusion, while a council tax increase may not be welcomed by all, it is a necessary step to ensure the continued provision of essential services and support for our community. The proposed increase of 2.99 per cent in core council tax and 2 per cent in adult social care precept is a small price to pay for the betterment of our community and the well-being of its residents. Let us support our local council in their efforts to provide us with a better and more sustainable future.
