Frome Town Council to increase council tax by almost 7% to fund local services
Budget proposal includes investment in parks, community buildings, and town centre enhancement
Frome Town Council has approved an increased budget for the next fiscal year aimed at sustaining and enhancing local services and investments.
Councillors voted for a 6.8% rise in the town council’s share of council tax following extensive consultation with residents.
This decision translates into an average weekly increase of 32p for 89% of residents, totalling £5.05 weekly.
Cllr Fiona Barrows, Leader and Chair of Frome Town Council, addressed the conscientious approach taken with the budget deliberations, acknowledging the current financial pressure on residents.
She emphasised careful financial planning and community-focused spending to maintain and improve local services.
Recent challenges faced by Somerset Council have prompted Frome Town Council to adopt additional responsibilities, including management of 57 new open spaces and stronger support for community organisations.
The council's recent growth has been scrutinised by the Local Government Association’s upcoming peer challenge review scheduled for 2025.
Recommendations for governance and financial management from this review have been incorporated into a new Improvement Plan for Frome Town Council.
The approved budget encompasses several key initiatives, including improvements to parks and community spaces, support for community organisations, and projects aimed at boosting the town's future development and town centre vitality.
Councillors expressed diverse opinions during the budget meeting.
Cllr Nick Dove and Cllr Lisa Merryweather voiced concerns regarding the adequacy of refuse collections and provision for post-16 education and economically deprived residents.
New Liberal Democrat councillor Richard Pinnock worried that the precept increase might adversely affect vulnerable community members.
However, Cllrs Anne Hills and Fiona Barrows reassured that provisions were included to support Frome’s most vulnerable.
Fair Frome charity representative Lenka Grimes commended the council for its financial backing amid growing service demands.