Support for council tax hike to protect key services
PEOPLE in the north could be willing to pay a bit more council tax to protect frontline Highland Council services, according to a poll on the local authority’s Facebook page.
The on-line vote showed that of 128 people who responded 60 people (46.87%) would be willing to pay more. Forty seven (36.72%) said they wouldn’t and 21 (16.41%) said that they didn’t know and would need more information.
Many people expressed a concern for frontline services such as winter maintenance and there were also suggestions on other ways in which the council could raise income.
A majority said that they would be happy to pay a bit extra on their council tax as long as it helps to protect frontline services and doesn’t affect the poorest disproportionately.
Council leader Margaret Davidson, said: “Around 2300 Highland residents on the citizens’ panel will be asked questions later this year on budget savings including their view on paying more council tax to avoid cuts.”
A 5 per cent council tax rise would equate to just under £5 per month for properties on Band D. The council will be carrying out consultation on a range of budget proposals, including council tax, with the panel later this year.
. What’s your opinion? Would you be prepared to stump up more in council tax to protect frontline services? E-mail editor@nosn.co.uk