February 15, 2018 10.17 am This story is over 72 months old

Council tax in Boston set to rise by 2.98%

It will also make £900,000 cuts at the same time.

Boston Borough Council is proposing a council tax increase of 2.98% in its budget for 2018-19, but it will also make £900,000 cuts at the same time.

Members of the council’s Cabinet will meet on Wednesday, February 21 to set the planned budget before all councillors vote on the proposals the following week.

Band D properties would pay an extra £5.31 if the budget is approved, with their council tax rising from £178.29 to £183.60.

In a report to colleagues, portfolio holder for finance Councillor Aaron Spencer said that the council would look to work innovatively with other authorities such as East Lindsey District Council to deliver balanced budgets in future years.

East Lindsey District Council’s Executive Board approved a 3.75% council tax rise at a meeting in Manby on Tuesday, February 14.

Councillor Spencer said: “Times continue to be tough for councils across the country, as they play their part in assisting the national spending situation as the government continues to reduce the national budget deficit.

“This council responded to the need to save at least £2 million from its net revenue budget in the period to 2020 as government grant is withdrawn with the refresh of its Transformation Programme, agreed in July 2016.

“For 2018-19, over £900,000 has been identified, enabling a balanced budget to be proposed.

“The thrust of the Transformation Programme ensures that this council will continue to provide the services it is required to do so by law, whilst also supporting the district’s most vulnerable residents and investing in the local economy.”

The Full Council will vote on the budget proposals at a meeting in Boston on Monday, February 26.