Council tax to rise in West Lothian
The Council has called it a "modest" jump in charges
Residents in West Lothian council are set to see a 3% rise in their council tax bills.
The local authority has called the increase "modest" as it's faced with plugging a near £12 Million funding gap.
87% of those living in the county will see a less than £1 a week increase in their bills.
What is means for you..
Leader of West Lothian Council, Lawrence Fitzpatrick said:
“Once again our Council along with all others in Scotland is in the regrettable position of having to make cuts to council services as a result of the woeful financial settlement from the Scottish Government.
"This year our budget gap is £11.7 million which means since the SNP Government came to power in 2007/08 West Lothian Council has had to cut more than £150 million from its budget.
"Although at the 11th hour the Finance Secretary offered extra funding for councils this is one off funding meaning it cannot be built into the budget for future years and as a result cuts still have to be made.
"Our modest council tax increase of 3% will see 87% of residents in the county pay less than £1 per week more on their council tax yet will bring in several million pounds more in funding to protect vital council services.
"Despite the immense challenges facing local councils across Scotland and our council here in West Lothian I am very proud of the budget set by the Labour group this morning which prioritises areas of great need in the county such as: roads improvements; financial support for those being squeezed by the cost of living crisis; support for those in homeless accommodation and those with drug and alcohol issues as well as employment support schemes.”