Powys reacted in collective anger yesterday after its was revealed that the County Council was planning on adding a whopping 9.5% onto our council tax bills from April.
The rise will be coupled with widespread service cuts as the cash strapped regional authority battles to balance its books.
It didn’t go down well with MyWelshpool readers who will be paying over £150 more for Band D property once the Town Council and Dyfed-Powys Police rises have also been factored in.
For many it’s a hike too far, and one county councillor has called a public meeting to enable residents and representatives of Powys County Council to share their views and concerns with each other.
Cllr Mark Barnes said: “My view is that both residents and the Council should make every attempt to understand each other’s viewpoint. Residents are understandably concerned about diminishing services combined with increased charges, but these are unfortunately what we are facing. So, what are the options?
“This meeting is intended to go some way towards a meeting of minds.”
The meeting will be held at Newtown Football Club on February 13 at 7.30pm, and will include a transparent discussion covering all issues that fall under the Council’s responsibility.
Members of the panel confirmed include Cllr Aled Davies, Portfolio Holder for Finance, Countryside and Transport and Cllr Myfanwy Alexander, Portfolio Holder for Learning and Welsh Language.
Other participants from Powys County Council will be announced on the event’s Eventbrite page and on Cllr Mark Barnes’ Facebook page.
Cllr Barnes feels that increased communication between the Council and its residents is key to everyone understanding each other viewpoints and this is the reason that Mark has arranged two open public meetings in as many weeks.
If you want your views heard, it is recommended that you reserve your free ticket ASAP here.
For more information contact cllr.mark.barnes@powys.gov.uk or 07590 005692.