Anglesey’s draft budget aims to start reinvesting in many vital services hit hardest by the Covid-19 pandemic and many years of austerity measures.
The County Council will receive a much welcomed and improved financial settlement from Welsh Government this year.
However, many services are facing increased financial pressure, including those helping vulnerable children and older adults, and they will benefit from additional investment if Budget proposals are endorsed in March.
Today (Wednesday, 26 January), Anglesey’s Executive launches a consultation to gauge public opinion on its initial spending plans for 2022/23 and a possible 2% increase in the Council Tax.
Finance portfolio holder, Councillor Robin Williams, explained, “Since 2013/14, we’ve been forced to make £25m in service cuts. After years of austerity, we now have an opportunity to reinvest in key service areas to respond to increased pressures, some of which are linked to the Covid-19 pandemic. Feedback from Anglesey residents through the consultation process will play an important role in decisions about future funding, particularly the amount raised through the Council Tax.”
He added, “We are, of course, keenly aware that the pandemic has meant financial hardship for many Anglesey households and businesses. We want to keep Council Tax as low as possible and are now proposing a 2% increase in Council Tax for 2022/23. This will equate to a weekly increase of 52p on an average Band D bill.”
As well as investing to address service challenges and risks, a 2% increase in the Council Tax would also help fund inflation, extra resources to maintain systems and meet anticipated increase in annual costs. Each additional 1% increase in the Council Tax generates an additional income of around £400k for the Council.
The Executive’s decision to approve initial Budget proposals will be followed by a public consultation period before the Full Council approves its final Budget on 10 March.
Members of the public can learn more about the initial Budget proposals and have their say by completing an online survey here: www.anglesey.gov.uk/budget-2022-2023
Council Leader, Cllr Llinos Medi, said, “Every service we provide has been impacted by nearly 10 years of continuous cuts. The pandemic has also placed a huge strain on a number of key services. As we now, hopefully, move towards recovery, we have a duty to reinvest in services which have borne the brunt of the pandemic.”
“I would ask the people of Anglesey to let us know what they think of our spending priorities and proposed Council Tax increase of 2%. Their feedback will help shape the final Budget proposals we bring before the Full Council in March.”
The Budget 2022/23 Consultation online survey will be launched today (Wednesday, 26 January). You can also send your comments to budgetconsultation@anglesey.gov.wales or write to: ‘Budget Consultation 2022/23, Chief Executive’s Office, Isle of Anglesey County Council, Council Offices, Llangefni, LL77 7TW.
Ends 26 January 2022