The decision to increase council tax in Reading has been criticized as ‘disgraceful and mad’ by residents amid the current cost-of-living crisis. This morning, individuals in the town center expressed their concerns, with the tax projected to rise by over £85 per year for the average household starting in April. Despite opposition from some town residents, the council is moving forward with the hike.
Some of the feedback collected this morning revealed that the majority of people we spoke are against the council tax increase. Many questioned the allocation of funds, expressing dissatisfaction with the decline in Reading services.
The increase comprises a 4.99% raise in council tax, the maximum allowed without a referendum under government rules, along with elevated contributions to police and fire services which is funded by the council.
At the meeting, the budget garnered support from 44 councillors, with all five Conservative councillors voting against it. The budget found backing from Labour councillors, seven Greens, three Liberal Democrats, and Cllr Sarah Hacker (Independent, Battle). Notably, Cllr Amjad Tarar (Labour, Battle) was absent, and 31 Labour councillors cast their votes in favor of the budget.
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