Swansea considers a 5.95% council tax hike, potentially adding £97.66 for Band D homes, aiming to address financial pressures.
Band D homes might pay £1,739.61, an extra £97.66, compared to the current £1,641.95. This does not include police or community costs. Leaders will discuss budget ideas next week, with a full council vote happening March 6.
Social services may receive £196 million, up from £170.6 million this year. Schools could get £213.6 million, compared to this year’s £201.8 million. The place department could get £98.4 million, an increase from £88.2 million. Education might see a small decrease, receiving £15 million.
The council hopes to spend £584.3 million on services, nearly £51 million more. Total expenses could reach £643.1 million, including some debt and fire service costs.
The Welsh Government gives £379.2 million. Council tax provides £165.3 million, and business rates will contribute roughly £89.1 million. This funds the £643.1 million total.
Council leader Rob Stewart addressed the rising demand and mentioned inflation and energy prices. He stated they can invest a record amount.
Stewart credited a better UK Government settlement, resulting in Wales receiving more. Swansea uses funds wisely, he said, cutting service costs efficiently.
Schools benefit more than the numbers show actually, as a £11.5 million one-time payment became routine. Schools should save £4.5 million. Other departments must reduce costs by £13.9 million, involving higher fees instead of only cuts.
All Welsh councils are finalizing budgets and hope for more money near the deadline. The Welsh Government announces its funding February 20. Carmarthenshire wants a 9.75% tax increase, while Neath Port Talbot considers a 7% one.
Swansea’s council cites rising fire service costs, an expense they can’t control. This forces them to raise taxes somewhat, with about 0.75% of the increase covering fire service costs.
Stewart said Swansea’s rise is low, acknowledging that people are struggling. He emphasized that they protect frontline services. Other councils cut services like bin collections, demonstrating that people agree tax increases are acceptable to maintain services.
A survey shows people want service changes and reduced parking fees. Top funding priorities include road repairs and elderly care. Parks, trash pickup, and safe schools are important as well.
Chris Holley said social services face high pressures, and the council’s loan payments are increasing too. He favors a 4% or 5% tax increase, aiming to lower the current proposal.