Homeowners in Waterford will be faced with increased local property tax bills next year.
This afternoon, councillors voted to raise local property tax by 10%.
Waterford Council Chief Executive Michael Walsh had sought a 15% hike, arguing that vital services would be badly affected next year, unless funds are raised. The council is currently facing a deficit of 2.2 million euro.
Councillors rejected this, however, and returned with a counter-offer - 10% up on the basic rate.
Tramore's Lola O'Sullivan called it an opportunity to show leadership during the coronavirus crisis. The 10% increase was backed by Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, the Greens and several Independents.
One surprise was that the Deputy Mayor of Waterford, Fianna Fail's Eddie Mulligan voted against his party colleagues and he is now facing losing the party whip as a result. The vote was also opposed by Sinn Fein, Labour and some Independents.
The 10% raise was carried by 19 votes to 12.
With the support of FF, FG some Inds and Greens @WaterfordCounci pass a 10% increase in Local Property Tax despite proposal by Labour, SF, Inds to maintain last year's position of 2.5% increase. This will take spending money out of households in #Waterford #LPT
— Cllr Seamus Ryan (@seamusryan1) September 22, 2020
Main Image: Noel Browne
