Burnham and Highbridge Town Council is starting a public consultation process for residents to have their say on local council tax costs.
It comes as Somerset Council faces enormous financial challenges and is having to make difficult decisions about the services it provides.
The council’s drop-in consultation events are taking place on:Â
- Tuesday 12th December: 1600–1830 at The Morland Hub, Pearce Drive, Highbridge
- Wednesday 13th December: 1600-1830 at The Princess Theatre, Princess Street Burnham-On-Sea
“The Town Council has been asked to consider taking over/funding some of the services that Somerset Council will no longer be able to fund,” says a Town Council spokesperson.
“This could include street cleaning, removal of fly tipping, the provision of public conveniences, management of play areas and community transport services.”
“For the Town Council to be able fund any additional service, it will have to significantly increase its budget and Precept request, which will increase residents’ Council Tax payments.”
“The Town Council is holding a consultation to understand what residents’ priorities are, so the information can be considered when Councillors make a final decision on what services to help fund/manage.”
“The Town Council is unlikely to be able to cover all the service costs, so the community’s views are vital.”
Residents are being invited to attend one of the events to meet with councillors and to see what services are at risk, plus the costs involved, and to give their opinions on which services the Town Council should financially support.
