by Alan Quick

CREDITON Town Council is to increase the Crediton Town Precept for 2018-2019 by 11 per cent.

In a statement issued today, Wednesday, December 13, the council said: “It’s that time of year when the Town Council deliberates its budget, and thus the precept, for the next financial year. This process has been made somewhat easier by the Town Council adopting a Strategic Plan.

“It is always difficult balancing a budget that meets the needs of the community and keeps a rise in the precept to a minimum.

“This year has been no exception with the Town Council resolving to increase the precept in 2018-2019 by 11 per cent.

“This may seem a lot as a percentage, but what does it actually mean? If you live in a Band D property (this is the middle band) this means an extra £9.49 per year or 79p per month. 

“So why the increase? The Council is still trying to purchase the Council Office building, if successful ongoing maintenance costs are estimated at £20,000.

“Some will be offset by rent income, however, as the building is used by community organisations this income is minimal as they can’t afford commercial rents.

“If not successful, the additional funds will be needed for alternative accommodation.

“The costs to maintain the public toilets has increased significantly and the Town Council is now purchasing Newcombes Meadow toilets from the District Council (Mid Devon District Council) in order to take control of the rising costs and the hope of improving them over time.

“The Town Council wishes to also continue to support local groups and organisations in the Town that make a significant contribution to the health and well-being of our Town.

“The number of applications for grant funding has increased significantly and so the Council has increased its grant budget by a further £5,000 to £25,000.

“For further information on the Town Council’s Strategic Plan and budget, please visit: www.crediton.gov.uk .”

• What do you think about the Crediton Town Precept increase? Share your views with fellow “Courier” readers.

Write a letter, suitable for publication, with your name, address and a daytime telephone number (not necessarily for publication) to: The Editorial Manager, “Crediton Courier”, 102 High Street, Crediton EX17 3LF.

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