We are asking residents and businesses to have their say on the proposed budget for 2022/23.
The draft budget looks to secure the authority’s financial position following the COVID-19 pandemic, including continued investment in projects that support the borough’s economy, whilst still supporting local residents, businesses and communities through the delivery of high-quality services.
The Council continues to face financial uncertainty, especially in terms of Central Government funding. As we look forward into 2022/23, the Council will be promoting projects which aim to drive commercial opportunities, place the customer at the centre of everything we do and achieve as much as is possible through greater collaboration through the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership. This budget is designed to meet the Council’s challenges and responsibilities, and ensure that the best possible services continue to be provided to Boston’s residents, businesses and visitors.
Portfolio Holder for Finance and Commercial, Councillor Jonathan Noble, said ‘Given the financial pressures that the Council continues to face, rising inflation, a likely reduction in future Government funding and business rates’ reform, they collectively underline the importance of delivering our services as efficiently as possible.’
We are proposing a Council Tax rise of 2.50% – £4.95 per year – an extra 9.5p per week for a Band D property.
By law the Council must set a balanced budget each year – this means expenditure must not exceed income. On January 19, 2022, the Council published its draft Budget for 2022/23 and associated financial strategies through to 2026/27. A copy of the draft Budget is available to read online by visiting: https://www.mybostonuk.com/consultation/
As well as maintaining existing service provision, the draft Budget proposes:
- Investment in infrastructure and facilities through the Towns Fund
- Investment in the Waste service
- Empowering communities in the way services are provided
- Commercialisation of services
- Addressing Deprivation in the area
- Tackling Climate Change through the Green Homes Initiative
The consultation is available to complete online at www.mybostonuk.com/consultation/
The closing date for responses is February 16, 2022.
Paper copies of the consultation can be requested by calling 01507 613418.