Residents ‘let down’ by tax hike

Residents have been left feeling “disillusioned and let down” by further council tax rises by Powys County Council, according to councillors in Trefeglwys.

Trefeglwys Community Council has written to Dr Caroline Turner and councillor Rosemarie Harris to “strongly oppose” any rise for the next financial year.

In a letter which was made public on Tuesday evening, the community council said: “Although councillors understand that the council needs to recoup extra money spent during the Covid pandemic which was obviously not budgeted for, the Welsh Government have made allowances for this and there are many concerns for the people of Powys if a rise to council tax goes ahead.

“The private sector’s income has, in many cases, been drastically reduced and many businesses have been forced to borrow money to survive.

“Councillors discussed their various concerns. Financial difficulties can result in various mental health issues which can lead to many different health concerns and in turn put strain on an already stretched NHS. The livelihood of young families also needs to be considered.

“For a number of years now residents of Powys have seen their taxes rise but services provided dramatically reduced. This leaves residents feeling disillusioned and let down by their Council.

“Many people cannot see where their money is going and therefore feel that it has been and continues to be wasted.

“Our roads are in bad condition and we cannot even have our potholes filled.”

Powys Council will decide the budget at a full council meeting on Thursday, February 25.