COUNCIL tax bills are expected to increase next year to boost funding for Thames Valley Police, writes James Bagley, Local democracy reporter.
The Home Office is set to give the force an additional £5.1m – a 1.8% increase – for 2023/24 and has allowed Police and Crime Commissioners (PCC) to increase the precept by up to £15 for a Band D property.
For the Thames Valley, that would mean that an increase of just under 29p a week for the average household, and would see more than £14m that could be invested in frontline policing.
Thames Valley PCC Matthew Barber said: “I am aware of the ongoing cost pressures that many households are facing, and I want to ensure that any rise in the policing element of council tax will deliver value for money.
“Despite funding received through central government, policing isn’t unaffected by increasing cost pressures and faces a difficult time to fund vital services. This year’s policing budget is set against a demanding economic environment with rising inflation, utilities, pay, and fuel costs.”
Residents across the Thames Valley are urged to complete an online survey and give their thoughts on where they would like the 2023/24 policing budget to be focused on.
Mr Barber added: “I want to see increased investment in community policing and improving communication between the public and the police. Final decisions on council tax and the policing budget will be made at the end of January.
“By contributing towards my ongoing survey, you can help shape how TVP continues to improve and tackle crime across our communities.”
The consultation will run until Friday, January 13, it is online at: https://survey.alchemer.eu/s3/90503915/OPCC-public-consultation
