Council tax in Tameside is rising 4.99%. Band A pays £1.17 more weekly, Band D £1.75. The rise aims to improve services.
Hugh Roderick said the rise is vital for the council to invest and improve services. Extra tax income will aid vulnerable people, including adults and young people.
Eleanor Wills praised the budget report, citing funding cuts of about £235 million since 2010. Wills credited the new Labour government with increasing spending power. She noted investments into key council services such as waste collection and children’s services. The plan also includes public health funding.
Liam Billington criticized the use of reserves. Dan Costello called the tax rise predictable, stating it was like a broken record and that Labour will ‘squeeze residents’. Kaleel Khan said bills are already high as residents face this new tax increase.
Roderick welcomed increased government funding and hopes cuts are reversing. He noted that while other councils cut services, Tameside invests in its people. Road maintenance and waste collection are both receiving funding. Plans also include town center regeneration.
Here is a breakdown of annual council tax costs: Band A will be £1,274.66; Band B will be £1,487.10; Band C will be £1,699.54; Band D will be £1,911.99; Band E will be £2,336.87; Band F will be £2,761.76; Band G will be £3,186.65; Band H will be £3,823.98. The amounts will increase slightly above each band due to added regional service fees.
The council hopes this budget helps and plans to spend £714m. Schools get £113m, empowering schools directly. Adult social care receives £162m to improve at-home living and maintain well-being locally.
Children’s services will get £138m to help vulnerable kids. Housing benefit receives £56m to aid those needing housing assistance. Neighborhoods get £46m.
Growth receives £55m, while levies will be £34m. Public health gets £18m to support healthy living.