Council tax meetings are always tense, as they involve important decisions: how much to cut, where to invest a bit more, and in the end how much residents have to pay for their services.
Even more challenging is that the poorest and most vulnerable rely on Council services, and yet it these people and those just getting by who tend to pay the most, as a proportion of their income.
This year, we were absolutely opposed to Labour's 2.2% rise, and came prepared to have all the discussions needed to get a lower number. My own view was like Liberal Democrat Hull, that Reading should be able to set a zero % rise this year, and colleagues from that city gave us alot of support in identifying how that could be done.
Unfortunately, during the discussions, it was clear that the Conservatives were really unprepared - and when a crucial vote came, they weren't in the room. So the Labour budget was forced through, against Liberal Democrat votes.
Really disappointing that it happened this way: I genuinely think the rise did not have to be as big this year, and I'm afraid that it reflects badly on both the other Parties in the town, both Conservative disorganisation and Labour's financial management. Nevertheless, I am glad we were able to stand up for our residents in what are very difficult times, and we will keep working to make the Council as efficient and effective as possible.
- Kirsten
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