This in from the council. Ed
Isle of Wight Council leader David Pugh has urged Islanders to have their say on Government plans to give communities power to veto excessive council tax increases.
The Government is consulting on the proposals that cover not just county precepts but police authorities and town and parish councils too.
The IW Council is committed to keeping council tax at the lowest practical level, as set out in its corporate plan.
Cllr Pugh however said he believed debate over changes could open up discussion on the opportunities for parish and town councils.
“With the current budgetary situation and the need for the council to focus its available resources on priority and statutory areas, there is growing opportunity for parish and town councils to play a greater role in providing and enabling local services,” Cllr Pugh said.
“This proposed legislation will enable the parish and town councils to establish a clear mandate for raising the precept – should their communities wish – to fund local schemes and activities.
“With this clear mandate and the council’s willingness to work with parish and town councils to devolve decision-making out into the communities, the opportunities have never been greater for local communities to make a real difference.”
Details on the proposals and how to get involved with the consultation can be found on the following link:
Cllr Pugh said: “This is a proposal that could have a significant impact for local democracy and I would urge Islanders to have their say in the consultation.”
Image: freddyfromutah under CC BY 2.0
