Newham Council's
freeze approved
Newham Council's freeze on
Council Tax was approved on Monday (February 23) at a meeting of
the full council.
Mayor Sir Robin Wales pledged to help residents through
the economic downturn by not asking for a penny more in the tax
levy from April.
The budget prioritises spending on supporting residents during the
credit crunch; clean and green neighbourhoods; safer estates and
parks; and improving the health and quality of life for older
people and vulnerable adults.
The proposals outline spending of £288.6 million on services. Just
under £218 million will be funded from Government grant with the
bulk of the rest met by Council Tax.
The zero per cent increase means properties in Band D will continue
to pay £945.63 to cover the Newham element of Council Tax.
Sir Robin said: "We know we have to support residents and
businesses in managing the impact of the economic recession. We all
face having to tighten out belts, but we are doing everything we
can to help residents. These are tougher times, but we're on their
side."
The council is going through a major savings programme to make sure
every penny counts. It is also making sure it is investing in the
services people say are the most important to them.