Manchester faces council tax increase, nearing 5 percent, to tackle an £18 million budget gap, alongside changes to fines and fees.
The council must have a balanced budget by March 11, planning to approve it on February 28. Details emerged about covering the £18m deficit and they want better savings and more income.
They will raise council tax by 4.99 percent, which is the legal limit without a public vote. Some other charges change too: littering fines rise £30 to £180, and early payment rises £30 to £120.
Fly-tipping fines almost double, going from £400 to £700 with no discount for early payment. Allotment fees increase by 50 percent, moving from 30p to 45p per square meter and a typical plot going from £76.20 to £114.
Unlike Stockport, Manchester won’t add new bin charges right now and bulky item collection fees will stay the same. Residents can still get three items removed yearly and pay for more pickups. Kitchen caddies and liners probably stay free.
The council will discuss the budget on February 28 at 10 a.m.
