Exmouth Town Council agrees 'modest' increase in budget

Exmouth Town Council has agreed a "modest" increase to its budget for the 2023/24 financial year.

A precept of £761,125 has been agreed - an increase of £28,100 on last year - which means that council tax band D households will need to pay £58.37 towards the Town Council's costs compared with £57.14 last year.

The average band D council tax charge set by town and parish councils across the country was £74.81 in 2022/23.

The town council's budget covers services such as CCTV, grounds maintenance, grass-cutting and maintenance of public realm assets as well as officers' salaries, building or administration costs and a contribution towards the running costs of the 99E bus service.

The Town Council is also responsible for the delivery of the tourist information service, Exmouth Festival, the beach wheelchair service, the Jubilee Clock Tower and Gorfin Hall.

The Town Council will continue to offer grants totalling £64,000 in 2023/24 to local not-for-profit organisations - more details on how to apply can be found on the council's website.

Exmouth Mayor Cllr Steve Gazzard said: "[This budget] demonstrates a continuing commitment to the residents of Exmouth that the town council will use its precepting powers appropriately."

Deputy Mayor Cllr Alex Sadiq said: "Being conscious of the difficulties for many residents at this time, the council has thoroughly reviewed its expenditure to keep the precept increase to a minimum.

"We are confident the people of Exmouth continue to get good value from the Town Council."

If you require any further information on the Town Council budget you can contact Town Clerk Lisa Bowman on 01395 276167 or by email at [email protected].