Feedback on Folkestone & Hythe District Council’s draft 2025/26 budget strategy is being sought.
The document includes discussion around the approach to setting a net budget of approximately £20m (annual spend) on key services and existing £84m on capital projects over a five-year period across the district.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council is responsible for – among other things – street cleansing, the household waste and recycling service, maintaining parks and open spaces, social housing, environmental protection, as well as planning and building control.
It is now the turn of residents to have their say, ahead of the midday deadline on Friday 31 January 2025.
Cllr Tim Prater, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “Local government is working against a backdrop of inflation, high energy costs, reduced government funding and an increase in demand.
“It’s important to see the budget strategy in that context. It aims to address all of those factors while maintaining financial stability and service delivery.
“Finance isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but this document will play a vital part in how the district council will operate in 2025/26. So please take a look and share your thoughts with us.”
The budget strategy is based on a 2.99% increase of the district council’s proportion of council tax. Fees and charges for non-statutory services have also been revised, largely in line with inflation.
Visit the council’s website to comment and read the detailed supporting documents.
A detailed draft budget will be developed following the consultation and this will be voted on by councillors on in February 2025.