Residents urged to have their say over Council Tax changes
RESIDENTS in the Harborough district are being urged to have their say on Council Tax changes which would leave those currently exempt having to pay.
Council Tax benefit is the responsibility of the Government’s Department for Work & Pensions and is administered by the district council.
But this will change from April next year and local authorities are being asked by the Government to design a scheme to determine the level of discount working-age people will receive in future.
Under the new scheme the council will get only 90 per cent of the funding it now receives - a shortfall of £351,000. The reforms are forcing the council to consider changing discounts and exemptions, including reductions for second homes and unoccupied properties. A total of 990 people in the district currently receive full Council Tax benefit and 730 get partial relief Pensioners will remain exempt. Even though for get no relief could be affected as they may have to pay more.
The council is seeking residents’ views on the best way to achieve an affordable scheme that will continue to support the most vulnerable in society but provide value-for-money and protect other services for all residents.
Council leader Mike Rook said: “I would encourage everyone to complete the online survey to help us understand your views.”
A public consultation runs until Friday, September 28, and is available online at www.harborough.gov.uk/counciltaxreform
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Weather for Market Harborough
Wednesday 19 June 2013
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 12 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North east
