A 55 per cent rise has been approved for Freshwater residents’ tax bills — with an average increase of £63 a year.
As part of the parish council’s precept, funding has been earmarked for buoys in Colwell Bay, a proposed skatepark and pump track and Christmas celebrations and decorations.
Four options considered
The parish council considered four options for its 2023/4 council tax precept, ranging from a 27 per cent increase — to simply maintain the parish assets due to rising costs — to the agreed 55 per cent.
A well-attended public consultation was held at the end of January where the parish council said residents overwhelmingly supported the highest proposed option.
One resident said,
“Freshwater is a community to be proud of. The investment by the parish council in services which enhance and support the community as a whole must be commended.”
Supporting community investment
The parish council says this enables them to continue supporting community investment in the village — allocating a community fund of £85,000.
As part of the £75,000 community investment fund last year, £60,000 was given to the West Wight Sports and Community Centre, £500 to local scooter rider Joe Crockett to attend the World Championships and £864 to Citizens Advice.
Heartened by support of residents
Freshwater Parish Council clerk, Heather Rowell said after the decision they were heartened by the support from residents that enables them to maintain and grow the assets in the community for the benefit of all.
In 2022/23, the precept increased by five per cent, to £117.04 for a Band D resident.
From April, the average Band D resident in Freshwater will pay £180.48 to the parish council.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
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