Local News
Have Your Say On Council’s Budget Plans
Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council are inviting members of the public to express their opinions on the council’s budget for the 2015/2016 financial year.
The cabinet met on Tuesday 9 December to officially launch its annual public budget consultation in which residents of the borough can have their say on council tax levels for the coming financial year.
Options open to residents include a rise of up to two percent, a freeze based on the current levels of taxation or a reduction in council tax by up to two percent.
A freeze or reduction would see the council take a grant in lieu of any council tax rise of £631,000, equivalent to a rise of one percent.
The cabinet report, which sets out a range of potential council tax options, can be viewed by members of the public here: www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/haveyoursay. The report sets out how each option would affect the council’s budgets and cost saving plans.
Current plans have the council saving almost £20m from the 2016/2017 budget whilst still ensuring frontline services are protected and our economy continues to grow.
Residents who have any suggestions can fill in the survey – found at the above address – and their views will be taken on board when the final budget setting report is drafted after the consultation’s closing date on January 23.
Councillor Norman Pickthall, cabinet member for corporate resources, said: “Contrary to what many might believe, we do take into account the views of our residents when considering our council tax plans for the upcoming financial year.
“Our key priority is managing the cuts inflicted on us by central government while still making sure that vital services our residents rely on are protected.”
