It is that time of the year again where the council tax bill has been decided and we in Kidsgrove will be paying 6p more, per household on average over the next year for the services which Kidsgrove Town Council provides. This money is used to cover a whole host of local expenses; however this rise is in addition to anything requested from NBC and SCC.

Kidsgrove Council Tax increases by 6p per week

It is that time of the year again where the council tax bill has been decided and we in Kidsgrove will be paying 6p more, per household on average over the next year for the services which Kidsgrove Town Council provides. This money is used to cover a whole host of local expenses; however this rise is in addition to anything requested from NBC and SCC.

I think it is clear to anyone that that services we see in the local area have improved and Kidsgrove is looking a better place. We need to keep a close watch on spending and look to cut the "wastage" which take place, however with the current level of guidance within the council, there is no reason to believe this wont take place.

We decided to ask local Councillor Mary Maxfield what you actually get for your money, which we have listed below;

• Advertising £500
  Allotments (including treatment of Japanese Knotweed) £2100
  Audit Fees £900
  Civic Regalia, Gifts and Mayor and Deputy Mayor's allowance £1575
  Council Tax £4600
  Grants £1000
  Repairs and general improvements £4300
  Environmental improvements £1500
  Office equipment £1150
  Postage, printing etc £1200
  Salaries £32000
  Telephone 110
  Website and technology £700
  Newcastle Borough Council shared services £48,000
  Loan repayment for Victoria Hall improvements £46,400
  Staffordshire Parish Councils' Association £1600

As you can see loan payments to NBC make up the most of the charges. If you recall at the time we were asking the Labour Controled NBC to fund the improvements to Kidsgrove Town Hall, however they said that it was our (residents) responsibility. More on this story can be found in our past news sections.

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