'Needless' council tax hike to increase fire service reserves

The decision was made to vote for a two per cent increase of the Fire Authority element of this year's council tax, even though fire service finance chiefs themselves said a 1.3 per cent rise would be adequate and generate reserves of 4.8m.

The budget hike also comes despite an underspend of 500,000 by the Fire Authority in 2009/2010, with the money already being moved forward into this year's coffers.

But despite the criticism, members say there are grave financial pressures expected from central government over the coming years as it looks to cut public spending – and it is necessary to stockpile funds.

Liberal Democrat councillor Tom Holvey, who represents York on the Fire Authority, said: "This is just putting up taxes for the sake of it.

"I absolutely appreciate the fire service is a vital authority but if their officers are telling us they have everything they need, we should not be voting for more.

"What will happen in the future is uncertain and I can see where they are coming from with that. But actually, we have lots of reserves already."

The two per cent rise, which was voted for by the Conservative and Labour members of the North Yorkshire Fire Authority, will only cost taxpayers an extra 1p a week, but is expected to generate an additional 250,000.

Labour councillor Christina Funnell, who voted for the rise, said: "The difference is only a penny a week for each household but in terms of the future we felt it was prudent to make sure we stick to two per cent.

"We have a responsibility to make sure the Fire Authority has all the resources it needs to do the job properly. The Fire Authority does so much extra work including water rescue and the public rely on this service."

Ian Young, director of corporate services for the North Yorkshire Fire Authority, said: "It is a massive issue but in financial terms we are in for a tricky time over the next four to five years."

Meanwhile, it was announced yesterday that taxpayers across the Harrogate District will see a zero per cent rise in bills this year.