Council approves Budget and sets its Precept for 2018/19
At its Full Council meeting on 12 December 2017, Horley Town Council approved its budget for 2018/19 and set its Town Precept. Cllr Samantha Marshall, Chairman of the Town Council’s Finance & General Purposes Committee, explained that the Precept for 2018/2019 had been set at a total net figure of £351,333. This means that the Town element of Council Tax will be an average annual amount of £36.90 representing an annual increase of 96p per Band D household (+ 2.66 %).Cllr Marshall commented that the Town Council remained fully committed to maintaining all its services, as well as pursuing a programme of enhancements and new projects. These would include improvements to recreation grounds and playgrounds. A new concrete skate park had been installed at Horley Recreation Ground, thanks in part to funding from Surrey County Council and Reigate & Banstead Borough Council and a new playground will be installed at Court Lodge Fields within the current municipal year. She added that the Town Council had also applied for planning permission to install a café and toilets at Horley Recreation Ground.
The Town Council will continue to support St Bartholomew’s New Churchyard and has made provision for £6,000 towards its grounds maintenance, subject to the approval of a grant application from the Church.
Provision has been made for continued enhancements to CCTV, in consultation with Surrey Police. There will also continue to be a commitment for regular security patrols in all Town Council parks to aid the safety of all members of public.
The Council has made provision for floral displays to enhance the town centre for the benefit of residents and visitors. The Town Council remains grateful to those Borough and County Cllrs who continue to use their Community Awards Scheme to provide generous funding for this and other projects, including the Horley in Bloom Photographic Competition.
The Town Council will continue to seek funding from appropriate bodies (for example the Gatwick Airport Community Trust). The Council will increase its earmarked funds by £29,000 for new projects including the replacement of the safety surfacing at Horley Recreation Ground.
In conclusion, in a challenging financial climate, Horley Town Council is committed to providing and enhancing facilities that meet the communities’ needs, and in doing so, achieving them at best value. Detailed information on the budget will be available on our website or from the Town Council Offices.
