Watford’s councillors have voted in favour of budget proposals which prioritise initiatives to improve the wellbeing of residents and Watford’s environment, as well as supporting the NHS through the COVID-19 pandemic and helping local businesses to recover and thrive.
In addition to all the standard services provided for residents and businesses, the budget will set aside funding for five other areas, including tackling homelessness and rough sleeping.
There will also be funding for responding to COVID-19 to support the NHS, wellbeing, caring for the local environment and supporting local businesses.
With many residents now in difficult financial situations, councillors agreed a very small increase in council tax of 1.7 per cent This is equivalent to a 9p per week increase for a Band D household.
Hertfordshire Country Council who receive the largest share of council tax revenue and the Police and Crime Commission have yet to finalise their council tax figures, so the final 2021-22 sum will be announced in March.
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “It’s a difficult time for many councils across the country as the coronavirus continues to challenge every aspect of what we deliver. Thanks to years of sensible financial management, Watford Council has been able to respond to this pandemic effectively.
“Despite the impact of less income and more spending to help those most in need in our town, we remain committed to delivering the best possible services for local residents, making our parks even better and supporting local businesses.
“We will continue to invest in projects that will make a real difference to residents’ quality of life and we will help our business community to survive and thrive into the future.”
0 Comments