Council tax in County Durham will rise after a narrow vote, as leaders cite financial pressures and differing political views.
The council tax will increase, a move Amanda Hopgood said is needed. She leads Durham County Council and believes not raising taxes is unwise.
The council must save money, with savings amounting to £18 million. They face a £45.536 million budget gap, covering the next four years and a grant of £48.8 million isn’t enough to offset this.
Hopgood said they face pressures as inflation and demand are rising. National wage and insurance costs jumped, and she states they struggle to balance things as funding after 2026 is uncertain.
Carl Marshall praised government funding, but he leads the Labour group and blames the council for tax rises, even though the council is led by others now.
Marshall criticized other parties and talked about finger-pointing, raising taxes was their choice, he stated. He called the budget a disaster and said they waste opportunities.
Officials warned against delays. Labour didn’t support the plan. Marshall wants a better budget, he wants Durham back on track, and he wants a new, improved budget.
Coalition members say Labour has no plan and James Rowlandson says Labour lacks vision. He is a Conservative councillor and represents Barnard Castle East.
John Shuttleworth is an independent councillor, he said finances haven’t improved. He feels the new government failed; it did not meet expectations.
Council tax changes come soon. Low-income individuals may get help, and unemployed and retired people can also apply. A scheme reduces their bills now.