COUNCIL TAX 2003 (31/10/02)

It’s that time of year again.County Hall is thinking about Council Tax.Somerset residents are being prepared for another hefty council-tax rise, without the County Council even knowing how much money Government will grant Somerset.

Conservative leader, Councillor John Smeaton, said, “In one of their latest press releases, the Liberal Democrats at County Hall are once again preparing Somerset residents for a well above inflation Council Tax rise.We have not yet been told how much money Somerset will receive from the Government, but it is clear that we are being softened up for another unpleasant shock”

Finance portfolio holder, Jill Shortland announced, ‘Somerset this year may receive an extra £25 million through the Government’s funding formula for local councils.’ However, she added, ‘the County Council could gain up to £15 million or lose up to £22 million which would either add or detract to the £19 million.’

John Smeaton commented, “Confused?Well, that’s their plan.Do you feel really confident that your money is in safe hands with that sort of clarity of thought?This County deserves better custodians of its finances than the Liberal Democrats seem able to provide.”

Instead of looking to save money, Liberal Democrats are looking to raise Council Tax.Once again Conservatives are asking for a review of our base budgets.Once again, Liberal Democrats do not have the competency to do it.”