Halton council could approve a rise in council tax and green bin charges at its meeting on Wednesday to address budget issues.
The budget includes a council tax increase of 4.99 percent. This is the maximum allowable without a referendum.
The council plans to cut costs and increase income. Voluntary redundancies are offered to staff, who can also buy extra time off work. They also review day services and supported living.
Garden waste bin collection fees will increase; the price rises from £43 to £50 yearly. They will also review school transport for SEND students.
If approved, Band D properties face higher taxes. The yearly charge becomes £1,846.66, an £88 increase.
Halton residents pay other charges too. They pay £277 to Cheshire Police, a £14 increase. Cheshire Fire and Rescue costs £95, which is a £5 rise. The Liverpool City Region precept is £24, rising by £5. The total cost becomes £2,242, reflecting a total increase of £111.
Some residents pay parish council fees. Daresbury is £48, Moore is £18, Preston Brook is £197, Halebank is £75, and Sandymoor is £29. Daresbury and Preston Brook have significant increases of 49 and 40 percent respectively.
Halton faces a large funding gap, totaling £72.5 million over four years.
The government provided Halton with a loan of over £50 million. This helps them balance the budget. Over £20 million covers this year’s overspending, partly due to agency staff and social care. Over £30 million fills next year’s budget gap.
The meeting starts at 6:30 pm.