Residents in Hartlepool are bracing for a council tax hike as the local council tackles a significant budget shortfall
Hartlepool: So, it looks like folks in Hartlepool are in for a bit of a hit on their council tax. They’re facing a nearly 5% increase to help cover a £16.5 million budget gap.
The council’s been crunching the numbers ahead of setting the budget for the next financial year. In a recent meeting, they shared how they plan to balance things out.
This budget shortfall is mainly due to rising costs in children’s social care, with some placements costing over £12,000 a week. Ouch!
Inflation and higher waste disposal costs are also adding to the pressure. Thankfully, the council is getting a boost of nearly £10 million from the Government, which helps a bit.
With the proposed 4.99% tax increase, people with Band A properties will see their bills go up by about £1.27 a week. That’s expected to bring in an extra £2.6 million.
To fill the rest of the gap, the council plans to save £2.9 million and dip into £1 million of their reserves.
Cllr Brenda Harrison, the council leader, mentioned that while the Government’s funding is a positive step, they still have a long way to go. They need to close that budget gap.
She pointed out that raising council tax is pretty much the only way local authorities can bring in extra cash to meet rising demands for services.
They’re also working with local MP Jonathan Brash to highlight the financial struggles to the Government and push for changes in the council tax system.
Harrison noted that the council has faced funding cuts since 2010, and they can’t fix everything in one go. But they’re hopeful for a better future for Hartlepool.
Thanks to the improved funding, the council can revisit some savings and invest in key services. This includes keeping three Christmas trees in the borough and promoting town center parking.
They’re also looking to tackle anti-social behavior by reintroducing night-time park closures and investing in a new street cleaner.
The final budget will be set at a Full Council meeting on February 20. So, stay tuned!
