The Board’s recommendation – which equates to an increase of 67 pence per week for an average Band D household – will now be considered by the Full Council on 1 March 2012 for a final decision.

Gwynedd Council’s Finance Portfolio Leader, Councillor Sian Gwenllian said:

“The UK Government’s decision to cut public funding means that we face a very challenging period. However, the fact that Gwynedd Council has a track record of excellent financial management, coupled with a long-term savings strategy means that we are well placed to deal with the tough funding gap we face.

“By taking a balanced approach we will keep the council tax increase for 2012/13 below the rate of inflation as well as protecting key services for Gwynedd’s most vulnerable people. An increase of 3.5% in council tax will help us to maintain important services and ensure that Gwynedd families are protected from significant financial pressures.

“As part of the financial strategy for 2012/13, a Council Tax increase of 3.5% will mean that we have to find over £6.5 million of budget savings. This is on top of the £6.6 million of savings we found last year - the vast majority of which has been found by working more efficiently to deliver services. Within the financial strategy for 2012/13  we have prioritised Social Services whose budget will increase by 2.3%, and schools whose budgets will increase by 1.6%. The cash for other services will fall by 0.6%.

“Gwynedd’s comprehensive savings strategy identifies robust plans which will allow us to bridge a funding gap of £37 million in the period up to 2014/15. Whilst the next few years will remain very tough, the fact that we have been planning ahead in a careful and methodical way for a number of years means that we are better placed than many to manage the situation.

“We are confident that by implenting these savings, we can continue to deliver modern and efficient local services for Gwynedd’s residents, whilst also keeping service cuts to a minimum.”

The Full Council will make a final decision on the council tax level for 2012/13 at its meeting on 1 March 2012.

For free and confidential advice about finding out if you qualify for Council Tax Benefit in Gwynedd, contact the team on 01286 682689 or email: benefit@gwynedd.gov.uk