Across England, hardworking families are crushed by relentless council tax hikes, secretive spending, and mismanaged priorities. From Boston's self-serving pay rises to Grantham's tripled precept and North East Lincolnshire's commercial gambles, councils are proving they're out of touch with the people they serve. It's time to elect a leader who will put ordinary families first—I am that Leader.
A Tax Crisis You Can't Afford
Millions of households now face council tax hikes that defy logic and fairness. Families in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead could see a shocking 25% rise, adding £451 to annual bills. Birmingham and Bradford councils are following suit, pushing up to 15% increases. Even North East Lincolnshire approved a 5% rise, claiming it will avoid service cuts but offering little more than superficial fixes like a £250,000 street-cleaning scheme.
Meanwhile, Grantham Town Council plans to triple its precept, hiking annual costs for Band D households from £4 to £12. Leaders blame predecessors' poor budgeting, but the community is left wondering: Where will the money really go? When will residents see the promised improvements to public services?
Boston: The Worst Example of Council Arrogance
In Boston, the betrayal is even starker. The council secretly voted for massive pay increases for its leaders. The Leader's allowance jumped to £20,000 a year, with the Deputy Leader's rising to £12,000—a combined 43% increase. Committee chairs saw a shocking 233% rise in their allowances, costing taxpayers an additional £51,820 annually. This decision was made privately, without consulting the people who fund their salaries.
As families in Boston struggle with the cost of living, poor public transport, and crumbling roads, their leaders line their own pockets. This isn't just mismanagement—it's a disgrace.
Misplaced Priorities in North East Lincolnshire
In North East Lincolnshire, council leaders approved a nearly 5% tax increase while promising "visible improvements" like a new environmental "hit squad" to clean streets. At the same time, they've funnelled resources into commercial investments like the redevelopment of Freshney Place, all while Ofsted rates their children's services as "inadequate." This pattern of chasing headlines instead of addressing real issues shows a council disconnected from the needs of its residents.
Why We Need Reform UK
These stories share a common thread: councils exploit legal loopholes, hike taxes, and prioritise their interests over the public good. Families pay more but receive less, all while leaders operate in secrecy and squander resources.
I have a better way forward:
Stopping the tax hikes: I will fight against councils exploiting loopholes to push through unreasonable increases that hurt families already struggling with rising costs.
Bringing transparency to council spending: No more secret pay raises or backroom deals. Every penny spent will be open to public scrutiny.
Prioritising essential services: From fixing roads to improving education and healthcare, I will ensure taxpayer money goes where it's genuinely needed.
Holding councils accountable: Iwill demand better financial management and push back against wasteful projects that don't benefit residents.
The Choice is Clear
We've seen what happens when councils operate unchecked: skyrocketing taxes, poor services, and leaders who prioritise themselves. I understand the struggles of ordinary families and will fight to protect your interests. I have the courage to challenge the status quo and demand better for you and your community.
This election isn't just about stopping these injustices—it's about building a future where councils work for the people, not against them. Vote for me on May 1st, and let's make that future a reality.
To get involved, please pledge to support me at andrea4mayor.co.uk/pledge
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