Residents can take part in a survey
Humberside Fire and Rescue is asking for views on changes to the portion of council tax that funds fire and rescue services across the Humber region. This funding is alongside government grants.
A spokesperson for the fire service said that they face uncertainty as the government is changing how grants are allocated nationally through the Fair Funding Review. This could potentially mean the service having less funding.
A spokesperson said: “Even if the government’s assumption of a £5 annual increase happens (based on a Band D property) the Service’s budget could still reduce by up to £3 million, which is around 5% of the budget.
“Without that increase, the reduction could be as much as £5 million. These changes may require the Service to review how fire and rescue services are provided in the community.”
As a result, the service is asking for public feedback by selecting one of the four options:
- Option 1: 2.99% increase – approx 26p/month (£3.08/year) on a Band D property
- Option 2: 4.85% increase – approx 42p/month (£4.99/year) on a Band D property
- Option 3: 9.71% increase – approx 83p/month (£9.99/year) on a Band D property (requires referendum, adding costs)
- Option 4: No increase
Residents can have their say by taking part in the online survey here, which is open until 5pm on Friday, January 30. The Humberside Fire Authority will consider the final recommendation at its meeting on February 13.
Chief Fire Officer, Phil Shillito said: “We want to hear from our communities before any decisions are made. Your feedback helps us understand local views and plan for the year ahead.”