 Council tax bills in west Devon arrive this week |
As council tax payers in Devon face massive hikes in their bills, west Devon has managed to raise its tax by less than a penny a day. The increase of just 2.6% is one of the lowest in the region which has seen rises of up to 18%.
It means that residents of an average Band D property will now pay �137.69 in council tax - an increase of only �3.49 a year.
The council says it has been possible because it has cut spending by �400,000, with no jobs being lost in the process.
COUNCIL TAX  There is an alternative - better efficiency  |
And despite the budget reductions, the council was still able to complete a �1m flood relief scheme for North Tawton last year. Anger has been mounting in Devon at increases elsewhere.
Plymouth residents opposed to a 15% rise marched in the city last weekend.
People have also taken to the streets of Ilfracombe because of the 18% rise in council tax set by Devon County Council.
Another march is expected there in two weeks' time.
A group of pensioners in Devon is to put up candidates in local elections as a protest against the rises.
Some pensioners in the county have already said they would be willing to go to jail over the rise.
Devon County Council is blaming the need for an 18% increase on an inadequate funding settlement from the government.
The government has hinted that it will use special powers to cap excessive council tax rises.
Local government minister Nick Raynsford has said that councils in Devon had received "very good settlements indeed", and should be able to budget properly.
West Devon is asking council tax payers to tell them whether they are satisfied with council services. People will also be asked if they would like to volunteer to sit on a residents' panel to help shape the future of the authority.
The questionnaire is being sent out with council tax bills.
One-Minute World News 
News services
Email this to a friend 
Printable version 
