PCC John Campion has launched his annual consultation to seek views from the public on the council tax precept for policing and victim services.
Following the government’s settlement announcement, on 17th December, the PCC said a rise in council tax was unavoidable.
With the government grant not being enough to cover inflation, growing demand on policing and government priorities, the PCC is proposing to increase council tax by 5% (average £14 per year) following the flexibility that was granted to PCCs by the government. However, even with this flexibility, service reductions and changes will need to be made within West Mercia Police to ensure it can continue fighting crime and responding to emergencies across the three counties.
PCC John Campion said: “Having to ask hardworking people who are already facing various increases to bills, to pay more in council tax is never something I want to do unless I absolutely must.
“The long and short of it is, the extra government funding will cover some of our increased costs but not all of them. We are continually looking at efficiencies, and all viable options to save money have been taken in this year’s budget. I therefore have no choice but to look at increasing council tax to address the budget gap we have. However, even doing that will still mean service level reductions and changes across West Mercia Police.
“The Chief Constable and I have left no stone unturned, and we have looked at all parts of policing so that the impact isn’t being felt in just one area. Other police forces have warned that police officer numbers will have to be cut. I have made it clear that I do not, and will not, let that happen. I recognise how important this is for our communities and the confidence they have in their police service.
“I remain focused on delivering community priorities, as set out in my police and crime plan, and making best use of the money the public gives.
“I will be running my consultation until 16th January. I want to hear from our tax paying public, so would encourage people to give their views.”