Council tax on the rise; SDC latest to confirm hike

Selby District Council has become the latest local authority to confirm an increase in its burden on council tax payers.

The council will hike its portion of local council tax bills by 1.99% from April and says the additional funds will help it to invest in 'growth and homes'.

But continued cuts to public sector spending by central government mean the council will still have to slash up to £750,000 from its annual budget if it is to keep its head above water. The council says it has already reduced its service running costs over recent years and is looking to save a further £1.75m over the coming three years.

The amount you pay in council tax each year is made up of five smaller chunks known as precepts. Theses precepts are set by each of the parish, district and county authorities that govern the local area with the remaining slices being set for the fire and police services.

From April 1st Selby District Council's levy on the average 'Band D' property will become £165.22, an effective rise of 6p per week based on current levels. 

Leader of the Council, Cllr Mark Crane, explained, “This is a modest increase that will help us to continue to deliver on the priorities for our area.  We want to support growth and investment, homes and to give people more opportunities to get involved in their local services.” 

Councillor Cliff Lunn, Lead Member of the Executive for Finance and Resources added, “As a result of the decisions we’ve made about our budgets over recent years we’re able to continue to invest despite facing further reductions in funding.”