Cut backs and a nine per cent council tax precept hike – the highest so far reported on – have been approved by an Isle of Wight town council.
After a Ventnor Town Council decision last night (Tuesday), the average Band D resident in Ventnor, Bonchurch and St Lawrence will pay an extra 29p a week, or £15 a year – making the annual overall cost £185.90.
The spend on the Time and Tide Bell, which has yet to be installed, has been cut, as well as the proposed new position of town crier.
CCTV to deter vandalism
CCTV has, however, been approved for toilets on Ventnor Esplanade, while money will be spent on lifeguard training, and £10,000 towards electrical work in Ventnor Park, to bring the current system up-to-date and make it safe.
A community orchard, costing £1,000, has also been budgeted for.
Other areas of spending
Money has also been agreed for youth services, the number 31 bus and the Wellbeing Café.
The town council is also making up for some ‘shortfalls’ in its 2023/24 when it under-budgeted for Ventnor Library, the beach safety provision and business rates.
There had been fears the precept rise could have been even higher.
Fears of 17% rise quashed
Earlier this year, Ventnor Town Council thought it would have to increase residents’ payments by almost 17 per cent to cover its costs, but found areas to cut to bring the increase down.
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
