Andrew is pleased to report that Conservative-run North Lincolnshire Council has been able to freeze the general portion of the Council Tax for a fifth year in succession.
Also, following a consultation with residents which showed that improving social care for older residents was a priority, the Council will be taking up the new 2% social care precept.
Andrew reports, “I’m pleased that thanks to sensible management of local finances, we have been able to freeze Council Tax here for the fifth year running. This is in contrast to a big rise proposed by Labour."
In North Lincolnshire, the Council has also been able to support a range of projects and local community groups, including free school parking, leisure areas and highway improvements; for the benefit of local residents.”
Cllr Julie Reed explains, “This additional 2% precept means that Council taxpayers are still paying less in real terms than five years ago when we took control. The money is specifically ring-fenced for social care, demand for which is rising as our population ages. It is right that we use this precept to raise £1 million extra to spend on our most vulnerable.”
Here are just a few of the other things agreed in the budget:
· £1.2 million to continue free car parking in Scunthorpe, Brigg and Ashby.
· An extra £2 million for local road improvements.
· £5 million to support flood defences.
· £50,000 for Keadby Sea Cadets
· £100,000 to support visitor projects for Crowle Moors.
· £250,000 for more skate parks and games areas.
· £450,000 on the Keadby Canal cycleway – which will provide a new off-road route between Crowle-Keadby-Gunness.
Photo - Andrew and Cllr John Briggs on the site of the Keadby Canal cycleway
