There is now less than two weeks left for people across Bath to have their say on plans to increase the policing part of council tax.
Conservative PCC Mark Shelford
Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford is encouraging locals to complete his Police Tax survey, which closes on 21st January.
The survey asks residents if they would pay an increase in the policing part of council tax, known as the precept.
The PCC is asking if residents would pay an increase of:
- 2%, which is equivalent to approximately 40p per month/ £4.82 for the year for the average band D household.
- 4.1%, which is equivalent to approximately 83p per month/ £10 for the year for the average band D household.
- Or no increase at all.
A £10 yearly increase would mean any savings that still need to be made would be less likely to impact frontline services, whereas if the precept is not increased, the force would have to make savings, resulting in a reduction in services.
PCC Mark Shelford said: “I know that any increase in household bills is felt by local people, especially due to other uncertainties as a result of the pandemic.
“This is why it is essential that everyone has the opportunity to tell me their thoughts and opinions before I make any decision regarding an increase.
“As PCC, I have to balance the challenges facing policing with local people’s views in order to best resource an efficient and effective police service that can keep people safe.
“So, whatever your thoughts about a potential increase, please complete the survey to make sure your voice is heard.”
Local policing is funded by a combination of Home Office and other grants, as well as the precept.
In 2022/23, the Home Office grant funding is increasing to fund additional officers as part of Operation Uplift.
However, this is not enough to manage inflationary pressures like pay rises for police officers.
The Government has told PCCs, who are responsible for setting the amount of money local people contribute to the policing part of the council tax, that they can raise the precept next year by £10 for an average band D household.
The survey will close on 21st January. To have your say, visit: https://www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk/about/police-tax-survey/.
