advertisement
Hart votes to freeze council tax
By Stephen LloydFebruary 08, 2013
HART'S all-powerful cabinet has recommended a council tax freeze.
Councillors voted to hold the district's share of the bill during a meeting February 7.
A final decision will be taken by full council on February 28.
If approved, the district’s share of the council tax will remain at £151.84 for an average Band D home from April.
Hart leader Ken Crookes is all for the council tax freeze. He said he was delighted the council was able to freeze council tax while making no cuts to services or grants to voluntary sector organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureau.
“We have even managed some modest growth, investing in economic development and offering apprenticeships to young people," said Cllr Crookes.
“While many other councils are making major reductions in services, Hart has already cut its costs and driven up its efficiency, meaning that we can protect and even enhance our services again this year."
Councillor James Radley, leader of the Community Campaign Hart, is also backing the freeze.
But he warned: “There is a concern that in future years, as the effects of successive rounds of funding cuts are compounded, Hart will be faced with cutting services which local people value.
“So there is an argument for increasing council tax in anticipation of having to address these shortfalls in future years."
Hampshire County Council also plans to freeze its share of the tax making bills £1,037.88 for a Band D home.
Browse Sections
