Kent County Council, led by Reform UK, faces criticism for proposing a nearly 4% increase in council tax, despite previous pledges to reduce taxes. The proposed hike, slightly below the maximum allowable without a referendum, contradicts Reform’s pre-election promises of tax cuts and waste reduction.
Opposition leader Antony Hook of the Liberal Democrats accused Reform of financial mismanagement and labeled the move a betrayal of voters. The proposed increase, although less than the maximum, falls short of the promised tax relief claimed during the election campaign.
Reform’s leader at Kent County Council, Linden Kemkaran, defended the decision, citing the council’s dire financial situation upon taking office. She emphasized the necessity for the proposed tax increase due to existing debts and service pressures. The budget proposal aims to manage finances effectively while keeping the tax hike below anticipated levels.
In a separate incident, Staffordshire council, also under Reform leadership, proposed a similar 3.99% increase in council tax for the upcoming financial year. Kent County Council’s final decision on the budget and tax charge is set for February 12.