💷 Heads up, Vale of Glamorgan residents! A potential 5.5% council tax hike is on the horizon for the 2026/27 financial year. This means an extra £1.75 a week for Band D properties, as the council tackles a £6.58m funding gap. 🌳
Why the increase? The council has been putting more resources into schools and social care, and while there’s been an improved funding announcement from the Welsh Government, it still falls short. They’re aiming to fill the gap with “reshaping” services and savings, alongside some strategic spending cuts.
Cllr Lis Burnett expresses optimism with hopes to invest more in essential services without major cuts, but notes recent funding challenges aren’t fully behind us. She highlights the council’s long-term priorities: enhancing places to live, protecting the environment, and supporting children’s development. 💪
On the flip side, Conservative MS Andrew RT Davies criticises the rise, linking it to National Insurance increases and other political decisions. He urges the council to reconsider its project priorities to alleviate budget pressures.
Plaid Cymru’s Ian Johnson is disappointed by the tax rise, emphasising their role in securing extra funds and promising to scrutinise the budget further.
Residents will have a chance to voice their opinions in a consultation starting January 16. Now’s the time to share your thoughts on whether you’d be willing to pay more for improved services like rural transport and youth provisions. 🚍
Keep an eye on upcoming discussions and share your thoughts during the consultation period. Let’s see where our community stands on what we want for our local area! 📢