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COUNCIL tax will be collected as usual for Argyll and Bute residents during the coronavirus outbreak – but the local authority says help is at hand for anybody who has trouble paying it.
Some local authorities in the UK have announced changes to their council tax payment regulations during the Covid-19 crisis, while members of others have called for such action to be implemented.
However, Argyll and Bute Council says there will be no blanket break for residents during the pandemic as the funds are needed to keep key services going.
Jackie Baillie MSP called last week for the authority to change the ‘council tax break’ months in its calendar from February and March to April and May.
READ MORE: Recycling uplifts suspended as Argyll and Bute cuts back on day-to-day council services
Councillors recently voted to increase Argyll and Bute’s council tax rates by 4.5 per cent as part of the annual budget-setting process for the 2020/21 financial year.
The budget was decided before UK government measures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus were enforced.
A council spokesperson said: “Vital services, that our communities need every day, continue to need funding so we will be asking people to pay their council tax.
“We recognise that this is a difficult time for many people financially, and as always will be keen to support anyone who has difficulty paying it at this time.
READ MORE: Council tax bills to rise by 4.5 per cent as Argyll and Bute budget is approved
“Our Caring for People helpline number is 01546 605 524. For health advice please call the NHS on 0800 028 2816 or visit www.nhsinform.scot.”
Elsewhere in Scotland, one Glasgow City Council member has called for his authority’s administration to suspend council tax while the coronavirus pandemic is ongoing.
The city council website states that council tax payers who can make their payments should continue to do so.
Meanwhile, East Ayrshire Council has stated it will not take legal action against those who are unable to pay council tax during the crisis.
People in that region are also able to sign up for reduced council tax payments if they have lost their jobs.
It was also reported last week that the Scottish Government has set aside £50million to help Scots who are struggling to pay council tax during the enforced lockdown.
Councils in England have also announced initiatives for residents and businesses in relation to council tax during the current pandemic.
READ MORE: Catch up with all the latest Helensburgh and Lomond news headlines here
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