Council tax to rise by 2.99%
Rossendale Borough Council is proposing to implement a 2.99% increase in council tax for the upcoming 24/25 year. The council have stated that the adjustment, in line with other local councils, is a necessary step to ensure the continued provision of essential services.
The increase amounts to £8.95 per annum on a band D property. The council receives only 13p out of every pound of Council Tax collected, with over half the amount, 72p, going to Lancashire County Council (LCC).
Chief Executive Rob Huntington said: " The decision to increase council tax by 2.99 per cent is a measured response to the financial challenges we face. We must emphasise that our council operates with just a fraction of the funds from central government we once received, making balancing the budget ever more difficult. 64 per cent of our funding now comes from the Council Tax we raise, therefore the increase is crucial to sustaining the levels of service our community depends on.”
Deputy Council Leader and lead member of resources Jackie Oakes added, "In these economically challenging times, it is imperative that we address the financial constraints we are under. We are committed to maintaining essential services and have allocated funds strategically to meet our statutory requirements while trying to balance the burden on our residents. On a band D property the proposed increase equates to an additional 17p per week."
Despite these economic pressures, Rossendale Borough Council has successfully secured funding for major regeneration projects throughout the borough that, coupled with its own contributions, will ensure long-term benefits for residents and businesses alike.
Rob Huntington added: "In the face of economic challenges, we have prioritised projects that will contribute to the sustained growth and well-being of our community and increase revenue. The council remains dedicated to delivering essential services efficiently, and the increase in council tax is a necessary step to safeguard these vital functions."
The proposed budget will be discussed at the next full council meeting on the February 28.