SNP Councillors in Perth and Kinross have ignored pleas from the Conservative group and are planning to increase council tax by 2% from April and 3% the following year. The Conservative group proposed a freeze this year an increase of 1% next year. Home owners in band E properties and above will face increases of up to 22% in their council tax bill in addition to the 2% rise yesterday.
Murdo Fraser has criticised the proposed increases at a time when the council is considering cuts in other areas.
The SNP Group have also refused to back a plan from the Conservatives that would see £600,000 of support for local businesses facing substantial rates hikes following the revaluation.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“The SNP in Perth and Kinross is taking with both hands and giving nothing back. Most people can understand that an indefinite council tax freeze was not practical, but increases along the lines proposed by the SNP are pushing householders too far.
“Our proposals for a freeze this year followed by a 1% increase next would give services the support they need whilst relieving pressures on tight household budgets.
“It is even more disappointing to note that the SNP refused to back our local rates revaluation relief scheme which would have provided respite for hard hit businesses in the area.
“The people of Perth and Kinross will not reward the SNP for increasing their bills and reducing their services at the same time, especially when there is cash to splash on chairs and tables at Council HQ.”