00:00Council tax in Wakefield could rise by up to 4.99% under draft budget plans for 2026-2027.
00:08The increase is aimed at closing a projected £23.4m shortfall and would add around £90 a year for a Band D household, which is just under £1.75 a week.
00:20Band A households could see bills rise by just under £60 annually.
00:24The proposed rise includes a 2% levy to support social care and is expected to generate nearly £10m in extra revenue for the Labour-run Council.
00:34The plan also outlines £11.5m in savings and service efficiencies across multiple departments.
00:41Council documents warn that the financial climate for local authorities remains extremely challenging.
00:47Over the past two years, 50 councils nationally have required emergency government support.
00:51In West Yorkshire, both Leeds and Bradford have already needed such aid, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong financial position to protect essential services.
01:01Adult social care and children's services are both experiencing record levels of demand.
01:07Cabinet members are expected to review the proposals on the 13th of January before they go out for public consultation.
01:13Final recommendations will return to Cabinet in February, with full Council approval expected on the 2nd of March.
01:19If approved, this would mark the fourth consecutive year of maximum permitted Council tax increases,
01:25although Band D charges would still likely remain the lowest across West Yorkshire.
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