Council tax hike planned to boost police funding

TAXPAYERS are facing an increase in council tax bills in a bid to boost police funding in Hampshire.

Hampshire police and crime commissioner Donna Jones has unveiled plans that could see a rise in the policing share of the council tax in 2022/23, writes David George of the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A potential increase of 4.4% would see a rise of £10 per year for a band D property to boost the police's share to £236.46.

For the proposed new charge, Mrs Jones has released an online survey which will run until 3rd January.

The crime commissioner said the money will be spent improving the 101 service and putting more boots on the ground.

Mrs Jones said: "I am committed to reducing wasteful spending across policing, to ensure we employ the maximum number of police officers possible.

"Your support of an increase in the policing precept for the year ahead will be spent on increasing police numbers in order to detect more crime and improving our police service.

"Long call wait times, repetitive messages, no feedback, and a perceived lack of action are some of the comments I have received about the 101 service.

"With an increase in police funds from the police precept, I will make it easier for you to report crime and receive feedback via the Hampshire Constabulary website."

The average combined council tax bill in the New Forest for 2021/22 was £1,923.90. The charge includes demands from county, district and parish councils, plus police and fire services.