Council tax in Scotland to reach record high with 15% rise in some areas

Starting next month, council tax rates in Scotland are scheduled to rise dramatically, with all 32 local authorities implementing increases ranging from 6% to 15%. This surge follows years of cuts in funding and arises from significant financial pressures, including demands for public sector pay raises and inflation. For example, Falkirk residents will see a 15.6% hike while Orkney's rates will increase by 15%. The Accounts Commission warns that such increases could further push households into debt, as many are already struggling with council tax arrears.

Councillor Laura Murtagh expressed her distress about the council tax increase, stating, "I felt physically ill to the pit of my stomach where we are having to make these impossible decisions."

The Accounts Commission warned of severe financial pressures on local authorities due to government funding shortfalls, indicating that many had to borrow more and deplete their reserves.

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