Senior councillors suggest a tax rise and service cuts to save £3M. Full council vote scheduled for February 24.
They suggest a Council tax rise of nearly five per cent. Some services may see cuts, and some fees could go up, like for waste removal. A parking charge review is likely too. They might also review some social care services. Some job losses are possible.
The Council must save £3 million by 2025-26.
Jane Scullion said things are still hard for local government. The national budget was “emergency” level last autumn.
The public gave 1,409 responses to the proposals.
Future work could focus on response motivations. For example, what do people want for more tax? Better social care, potholes fixed, or children’s services?
Some services are “statutory,” others are not. The legal degree each holds can be murky. The Libraries Act says provide service, not what kind. One central library, or a whole network?
Silvia Dacre noted 38% supported the Council tax increase. Almost three per cent was for general services, and two for adult care.
She understands tax concerns from those disagreeing. The Cabinet feels for residents facing higher Council tax. It might not improve services like parks or waste.
Adult and children’s social care use 70% of revenue. Many residents are not aware of this high expense. They see more money asked, without better local services.
Raising Council tax to the max is expected by the government. This is needed to meet responsibilities with current funding.
One change to the budget helps young people leaving care. It gives them a tax allowance if they stay in Calderdale. Funding comes from children’s grants. Scullion said it’s like parents helping kids move out.
Adam Wilkinson supports it. This change impacts their independence journey. Scrutiny councillors made sensible budget suggestions. These will guide future budgets.