In the upcoming financial year of 2023/24, residents of Reading will experience a notable increase in the Council’s portion of Council Tax. The increase is set at 4.99%, equivalent to an additional £1.76 per week for properties in Band D and £1.56 per week for properties in Band C. It is important to note that the majority of properties in Reading fall within Band C and below.
This year, the tax hike in Reading has been particularly pronounced due to a recent rule change that permits councils to raise rates by up to 5% without the need for a referendum. Consequently, residents have seen a substantial increase in their Council Tax liabilities.
It is worth highlighting that Reading’s Council Tax rates surpass those of neighboring areas, including Slough Borough Council, which was authorized to raise council tax by 9.99%. This discrepancy has not gone unnoticed, as Councillor Clarence Mitchell (Conservative, Emmer Green) pointed out that Reading currently has the highest council tax in the county.
In response, Councillor Graeme Hoskin (Labour, Norcot) argued that when considering the overall taxpayer perspective, the burden is relatively lighter due to a majority of homes falling within the lower council tax bands of A to C. This implies that, on average, taxpayers in Reading pay less in council tax compared to other areas.
The council tax increase in Reading for the upcoming year brings both challenges and discussions regarding the allocation of resources and the impact on residents. As the financial year progresses, it remains important for residents to stay informed and engaged in local decision-making processes that shape the community’s fiscal landscape.
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