Staffordshire residents brace for a 3.99% council tax hike, despite Reform UK's promise to cut costs. The county council's budget proposal for 2026/2027 includes a £5.5 million boost for children's and family services, alongside a £21 million savings target by 2027. This increase, equivalent to an extra £64.71 annually for Band D properties, has sparked controversy. The Conservative opposition calls it a betrayal of voters' trust, as the administration had pledged to cut taxes and wasteful spending before their May election victory. However, the cabinet member for finance, Chris Large, argues that the budget is balanced and highlights investments in highways and debt reduction. The council's focus on early intervention, additional social workers, and efficiency measures aims to address concerns, but the debate rages on as the budget awaits final approval.
