TIME is running out for people to have their say on the amount of council tax paid for fire and policing services in Staffordshire.
A consultation on the issue closes on 12th January.
Staffordshire Commissioner Ben Adams is responsible for agreeing the precept – the amount in each council tax bill which goes towards funding Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service – as part of the budget for both organisations.
He said that even with a maximum increase maintaining current provision would be “extremely challenging”.
“Since 2021 I have always tried to keep your council tax precept low and I will only ask for more if I believe it is necessary to maintain or improve the services.
“I want to continue to invest in people and technology to further improve our services, to protect our communities and keep bringing crime and anti-social behaviour down, but government grants this coming year will not fully cover increases in pay, national insurance and inflation.
“Even with the maximum precept increases of £14 for police and £5 for fire and rescue per year for a Band D property, maintaining the staff and service levels required to address national, regional and community priorities will be extremely challenging.
“So, I would welcome your thoughts to help inform my decisions. How much would you be willing to contribute to protect our local services? Every penny will help our officers, firefighters and staff to keep Staffordshire safe.”
People can give their views online until 12th January.