January 2, 2019 11.15 am This story is over 62 months old

Boston councillors propose 2.99% council tax hike

The council is trying to balance its books
Boston Borough Council offices in West Street.

Senior Boston councillors have proposed a 2.99% council tax hike as part the local authority’s budget plans.

The move would see the council increase its share of the rate in an effort to balance its books in 2019/20.

It would see the authority increase the rate for an average band D property from £183.60 to £189.09.

Boston Borough Council’s cabinet will meet to discuss the proposal at a meeting on January 9.

Officers at the authority have recommended that councillors approve the measures.

Final budget proposals will go to a meeting of the full council in February.

It comes as authority’s across the region are looking at other avenues of income in the face of funding cuts from government.

Councils are expected to see a further reduction in their revenue support grant, the main source of funding from Whitehall.

Councillor Aaron Spencer, cabinet member for finance at the council, said in a report that the proposed budget will help the authority continue to deliver vital services.

“This budget is designed to meet the council’s challenges and responsibilities, and ensure that the best possible services continue to be provided to Boston’s residents, businesses and visitors,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lincolnshire County Council has proposed to increase its share of council tax by nearly 5%.

The increase would include 2.95% for general council tax and 2% extra for adult social care precept for 2019/20.

Council leader Martin Hill acknowledged however, that the public was at the limit with council tax rises and moved to reassure people.

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