Are you concerned about the quality of state education in Edinburgh? Or about social care for the elderly? What about how often the bins are emptied or potholes repaired?
Whatever your priorities, the Council Tax is capped, and there are further swingeing cuts coming to City of Edinburgh's expenditure over the next few years. Things don’t look like getting better anytime soon.
So, boring as it may seem, there’s a pressing need to think calmly and carefully about how we raise money to pay for local services.
The Commission on Local Tax Reform was set up earlier this year by the Scottish Government to identify fairer alternatives to the current system. It comprises 13 individuals with a range of political views, experience and expertise. Edinburgh Central’s Marco Biagi MSP is one of the co-chairs.
The subject is far from straightforward. Should local tax be based on:
- your income?
- the value of your property?
- how much you use local services?
- the value of your land?
- an equal contribution by everybody?
- a rate reflecting local community priorites?
- a rate determined by the Scottish Government?
The Commission currently seeks the public’s views. You don't have to be an expert. You can contribute through a 5-minute survey or, if you have the time and inclination, in more depth.
The deadline for submissions is Monday 22 June.
