Investing in Our Community: Understanding the Parish Council Budget for 2024/25

East Hunsbury Parish Council has a statutory duty to prepare a budget which forms the basis of our precept demand. West Northamptonshire Council collect the precept on our behalf through your Council Tax, together with the money they collect for other organisations for services that benefit the whole of West Northamptonshire such as Police and Fire Services. All of the different elements that make up your Council Tax will be shown on your bill, including the proportion of your bill that goes to the parish council.

We believe that open communication is key to maintaining the trust and understanding between the council and the community, and in this spirit, we would like to share how the parish council agrees upon its budget and precept demand, and why we have made certain decisions for the 2024/25 financial year.

Budgeting for the community's needs is a process that involves careful consideration and thoughtful planning. The parish council is committed to delivering services and organising various activities and events that enhance the quality of life in East Hunsbury but are also mindful of the current economic situation and the financial pressures on the community, together with the increasing costs faced by the parish council.

For the year 2024/25 the Parish Council has agreed a total budget expenditure £385,991, with a precept demand of £327,796. This decision was reached after thorough deliberation and analysis of the work we already do, and future need and aspirations. It is important to note that this budget increase is a strategic move to ensure the continuity of the excellent services and events that our residents have come to enjoy. Whether it's maintaining our green spaces, supporting local events, or enhancing community facilities, this budget allocation is an investment in the continued growth and vitality of our parish.

We want to ensure that residents are aware of the impact of this budget on their individual contributions. Using these figures, a property in Band D will pay £94.82 towards the precept - that's around 26 pence a day.

As we move forward into the 2024/25 financial year, East Hunsbury Parish Council remains dedicated to transparency, community engagement, and responsible financial stewardship. We invite you to join us in shaping the future of our community and appreciate your continued support in making East Hunsbury a better place to live, work, and visit.