STRUGGLING households in Solihull face further financial pressure with average Council Tax bills in the town set to rise by an average of nearly £100 a year.
Solihull Council has announced its share of the tax will go up by £75.70 a year for the average Band D home.
This is in addition to the previously announced £15 rise in the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner’s share of Council Tax, and a hike of £4.99 by the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority.
It means the 2023-24 bill in Solihull for an average Band D home will be around £1,868 – plus Parish or Town Council precepts.
The Council also approved a Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) up to 2025/26, which it says will allow it to deliver its priorities as outlined in the Council Plan, and to manage finances ‘in a prudent and efficient manner’.
Council leader Coun Ian Courts said: “When setting council tax, we have to strike a balance. We are, of course, mindful of the current cost-of-living pressures and the potential impact an increased rate could have on council tax payers.
“However, we must also consider the need to provide ongoing funding for our services, so we can continue to deliver the services residents need and expect.
“I believe we have struck that balance with this new council tax rate and a strategic three-year budgeting plan. This means we will be able to maintain investment in our services, press on with our ambitious Economic Strategy, continue our effective action to combat climate change and carry on supporting our people.
“We have ensured additional funds are allocated to protect the most vulnerable in our communities. This year’s budget includes over £25million of additional funding to support our improvement plans for Children’s Services, as well as nearly £15 million of additional funding for adult social care.
“As ever, we are committed to making the best use of our resources to improve the lives of all Solihull residents, now and in the future.”
