Council tax rises 4.95%. Funds allocated for roads, dog fouling, and social care after public feedback on budget.
Council tax will increase by 4.95 percent. It is one of Wales’ lowest rises, for the fourth year. Band D bills will increase by £76.75 yearly. The council approved the budget on February 18. The full council will vote on it March 4.
Hunt stated it addresses residents’ concerns. People mentioned issues like potholes. They also noted dog waste and pavements. The council is spending £2 million on local roads. They plan a spring clean to tackle dog fouling. This addresses issues residents raised.
An extra £2 million is for highway repairs. This is on top of £3 million for roads. The total fund for road improvements is £5 million.
The council will share its chief executive. They will share with Blaenau Gwent. This will reduce senior staff numbers. This will also make the council more efficient.
Band D council tax will be £1,627.32. This amount excludes community and police charges. Torfaen has one of Wales’ lowest tax rises. Torfaen’s council tax is the fifth lowest in Wales.
The budget supports over 9,400 residents. They cannot afford to pay. This support costs over £500,000.
The budget includes £5.4 million more for schools. £800,000 is for school transport and learning needs. £800,000 helps Crownbridge Special School grow.
£1 million supports adult social care. They will maintain current service levels. These services support about 1,030 clients. £1 million helps children’s care. This program hopes to cut costs by 2028.