Harlow Council achieved a budget surplus for the financial year 2024/25 despite freezing council tax while increasing investment in services. The surplus contrasts with the national trend of overspending and council tax hikes among many councils. Prudent financial management maintained healthy reserves and balanced accounts, enabling a 41% increase in the budget for 2025/26 to support the 'Building Harlow's Future' plan, which is fully funded. Council leader Councillor Dan Swords emphasized the importance of effective financial management and the council's commitment to transforming the town.
"Strong financial management is crucial for every council - that means spending taxpayers' money well and keeping to the budget we have set."
"So many councils across the country are struggling enormously at present with significant overspending and budget deficits being reported in nearly all councils, whilst council tax increases."
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