As the decision on the level of Council Tax looms large, the actual amount is yet to be settled upon. Given Labour's record on increasing this local levy, it is likely to be as high an increase as they can impose upon taxpayers.
Early indications are that there will be an increase in the region of 4%. An increase will be applied even though they will get extra funding directly from national government coffers.
Under the Conservatives, Trafford had several years of NIL increases to the Council Tax, it being recognised as one of the biggest expenses facing every household.
"We know that Labours are planning an increase to Council Tax. It's just a question of by how much."
The years of zero% increases are locked into the process now – So future increases are calculated on a much lower base figure. Bowdon councillor, Mussadak Mirza commented "We know that the Labour Party generally has a propensity to tax more. So, yes, our Council Tax will increase. They will argue how short of money they are, yet they do seem to be spending a lot at present and not necessarily on things that people want right now. They need to re-examine their spending before they set the Council Tax. Some economies are achievable."
Conservative candidate for Bowdon Dr Shengke Zhi commented "Conservatives want a low council tax, while Greens and Labours want a high council tax. We must work together for a sustainable recovery that delivers for our economies and our planet."
While still dealing with the effects of inflation and the Pandemic, the last thing that Trafford residents need is another Labour tax increase.