Conservatives and Liberal Democrats Clash Over Bridgwater Tax Increase
The Conservatives and Liberal Democrats respond to Bridgwater’s significant tax rise, highlighting concerns and differing views on the issue.
Bridgwater, Somerset, Council Tax, Labour, Conservatives, Liberal Democrats
Bridgwater: The Leader of the Council, Brian Smedley, wrote about a tax increase in the Bridgwater Mercury. He called it a “modest” rise.
Now, both the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives have shared their thoughts on this tax hike.
Bridgwater Conservatives Say Tax Hike Is ‘Too Much, Too Soon’
Diogo Rodrigues, the Interim Conservative Group Leader, expressed concerns. He said Bridgwater might become one of the most expensive towns for council tax.
After a recent Town Council meeting, Bridgwater’s tax bill rose significantly. The Band D council tax is now over £410 a year, up from £295 last year.
Every Labour councillor supported the tax hike, while all Conservatives opposed it. They wanted a public consultation first.
Rodrigues pointed out that many families in Bridgwater are struggling. He mentioned that pensioners are worse off after Labour cut the winter fuel allowance.
Labour claims they had to raise taxes to keep services. However, a service director stated that no council was forced to do this.
Last year, Labour raised council tax by 164%. Soon after, they found a £420,000 financial gap. Rodrigues was removed from a meeting for asking too many questions.
Now, residents face one of the highest council tax bills in the country. Labour leader Brian Smedley insists the increase is “very modest.”
Bridgwater Liberal Democrats ‘Disappointed’ with Blame Game
A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats expressed disappointment. They noted Somerset Council is facing a financial emergency due to rising social care costs.
They thanked partners in Somerset for taking on more services to avoid cuts. However, they criticized Labour for blaming Somerset Council.
The Liberal Democrats compared Bridgwater’s tax increase to Taunton’s modest 8.7% rise. They questioned why Bridgwater’s increase is a massive 37%.
Somerset Council has strict spending limits and has stayed within budget. In contrast, Labour’s spending choices raised eyebrows.
They highlighted unnecessary expenses, like £8,200 on a druid banner and over £100,000 on the Bridgwater Arts Centre. They stressed the need for essential spending only.