Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Council tax increase recommended.
At its meeting on 8 February, Cabinet confirmed its wish for a general fund revenue budget of £13.964 million in 2006/07.

It also approved a capital programme of £3.3 million for the coming year - these projects fit in with the authority’s corporate priorities.

Cabinet agreed a number of changes to the draft budget considered in January, including redistributing some funds and not withdrawing from the Avoncliff car park lease for the time being. The Council will continue to rent the site until the current district-wide review of car parking is complete.

Full Council will now decide the final budget when it meets on 22 February. If adopted, band D properties will pay £134.26 for District Council services.

Trevor Carbin, the finance portfolio holder, said: “Although our Government grant is better than in previous years, this has still been a tough process. I am grateful to all members who have had an input into this.”