Council tax looks set to rise in Cannock
Council tax in Cannock will rise by 1.95 per cent under new plans announced by the cash-strapped authority.
Leaders say the increase, which equates to 6p per household per week, would protect future frontline services.
The precept has remained the same in the district since the 2013/2014 financial year, but now the council's cabinet chiefs have recommended it be raised, blaming a reduction in Government funding.
Cannock Chase District Council leader George Adamson said: "As well as reductions from the Government, the council tax freeze grant, where councils were encouraged to freeze council tax is also no longer available, so it's looking like we have got no choice but to increase council tax for the first time in three years, or our frontline services will be affected.
"The average increase equates to just over 6p per household per week."
The council is set to see its funding fall by 40 per cent – nearly £2 million – over the next four years. It follows a reduction of £3.6m since 2010/2011.
The council is awaiting the final proposals from the Government in relation to new homes bonus and business rates before it assess its budget position for 2018/2019.
The cabinet will discuss the tax rise on Monday. It comes after Staffordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis stated that he wanted to freeze the force's proportion of council tax for this year despite having to make savings of more than a £1m.
