Residents in Rhondda Cynon Taf are set to face an increase in their council tax payments for the upcoming year, as reported by Wales Online. The approved budget for 2025-26 will see a 4.7% rise in council tax, with those living in band A properties expected to pay an additional £1.02 per week, and those in band D properties anticipated to pay £1.53 more per week. The overall council revenue budget for the upcoming year has been set at £668.17 million. The Welsh Government provided an increased funding of 4.8% to Rhondda Cynon Taf, which left a remaining budget gap of £769,000 to be covered by the council tax increase.
Council Leader Andrew Morgan highlighted the challenges faced in balancing the need for service cuts, investments in vital areas such as schools and social services, and addressing the rising cost-of-living pressures for families. The decision to raise council tax was not taken lightly, with considerations given to the impact on residents. The Plaid Cymru party proposed an alternative plan to reduce the council tax increase to 4% by utilizing reserves, but this amendment was unsuccessful. The approved budget included an increase of £11.2 million for schools in the upcoming year, demonstrating a 5.6% rise in the schools budget.
A notable decision included in the budget was the closure of the Cae Glas care home in Hawthorn, which is expected to reduce the budget gap by £1.16 million. Efficiencies of £3.75 million, along with savings from standard fees and charges, were incorporated to address the financial gap. Councilor Morgan expressed the challenge of managing with limited government funding while striving to protect jobs and essential services. The council emphasized a balanced approach in the budget strategy, focusing on maintaining key areas such as education and social services.
The Plaid Cymru leader emphasized the party’s amendment as a means to address the financial pressures faced by residents, aiming to make a small change by reducing the council tax increase. While the Conservative and independent groups supported this initiative, it did not gain enough traction during the budget decision process. The approved budget also included provisions for severe weather resources and replenishing reserves.
Despite the constraints faced in balancing the budget, the council emphasized investments in critical sectors and minimizing substantial cuts to core services. While efficiencies and savings were sought to address the financial challenges, the council acknowledged the difficulty in managing the increasing pressure on resources. The ongoing commitment to protecting jobs and services remained a priority for the council, even amidst the financial constraints.
In conclusion, the approved budget for Rhondda Cynon Taf reflects a delicate balance between addressing financial constraints, investing in crucial areas such as education and social services, and minimizing the impact on residents through manageable council tax increases. The decision-making process highlighted the complexities involved in managing a council’s budget while prioritizing essential services and community needs.