Residents Urged to Share Opinions on Newport’s Council Tax and Budget Plans
Newport’s council is calling for public input on proposed tax hikes and budget changes, emphasizing the importance of resident feedback.
Newport, Wales, Council Tax, Budget Plans, Public Consultation
Newport: Senior councillors are really pushing for residents to weigh in on next year’s budget plans. They’re looking at a possible council tax hike, and they want to hear what people think.
Cllr Dimitri Batrouni, the council leader, mentioned that Newport is growing faster than anywhere else in Wales. This growth is putting a strain on services for everyone, from kids to seniors.
If the council tax goes up by 6.7% starting in April, folks in average Band D homes could be paying an extra £100 a year. That’s a pretty big jump!
They’re also considering some tough cuts in the budget, like closing libraries and reducing community centers. It’s a lot to take in, and they want to make sure everyone has a chance to voice their opinions.
The public consultation is open now and will be running until February 5. Cllr Emma Stowell-Corten stressed that it’s important for residents to participate. Comments on social media won’t count in the official feedback.
Cllr Deb Davies, who’s in charge of education, said they’re making some hard choices but are committed to keeping school funding intact. She wants residents to feel proud of living in Newport.
She also pointed out that keeping services running safely does come with a price tag. Most people in Newport live in lower band properties, so a 6.7% increase would mean an extra £66 to £89 a year for them.
Cllr Batrouni reassured everyone that the council is listening. They’re planning more grass cutting and even a “hit squad” for extra street cleaning. But not everyone is on board with the tax increase.
Opposition councillors are not happy about the proposed tax hike while services are being cut. Cllr Matthew Evans from the Conservative group expressed his frustration, saying it feels like payments are going up while services are going down.
During the council meeting, Cllr Batrouni acknowledged that Newport is set to get the highest annual funding increase from the Welsh Government. This funding is crucial since it makes up about three-quarters of the council’s income.
He argued that the increase reflects the city’s rapid growth, which is putting pressure on schools and social services. The extra funding is a response to real needs in Newport.
He’s really encouraging residents to get involved in the consultation. “We want to know what people think,” he said. If you want to share your thoughts, check out the Newport City Council website for more info.