Oakham Town Council Approves 4.80% Council Tax Rise
Oakham Town Council has approved a 4.80% increase in council tax for the upcoming year, amounting to an extra £3.50 per household. The decision was made at an extraordinary meeting, with four of the six councillors present voting in favour.
Cllr Sally Wadsworth abstained from the vote, while Cllr Martin Brookes opposed the increase. Cllr Brookes expressed concern about the council's existing reserves of £119,000, arguing that the rise was unnecessary, especially given the financial difficulties faced by some residents.
The council's budget for the year includes a provision of £9,000 for potential councillor allowances. While not yet approved, the allowance would be intended to incentivise more people to join the council. Typically, parish councillors do not receive allowances. Allowance can not be paid to co-opted members.
The proposed allowance for the Chairman, Cllr Paul Ainsley, is £2,000 per year to cover the costs associated with attending events and external meetings. Cllr Ainsley has stated that he will not be claiming the allowance this year.
Oakham Town Council's primary expenditures include:
Salaries: Approximately £75,000 annually for a Clerk, Deputy Clerk, and a handyman.
Grounds Maintenance: £32,000 per year.
Church Street Toilets: £17,500 per year for maintenance.
Street Lighting: £40,000 returned to Rutland County Council to fund electricity costs.
Oakham Hopper: £27,000 to support the free local bus service.
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