LETTERS: Wakefield Council budget

What if the council didn’t do this? Collecting people’s refuse has been enshrined in law for years for hygiene and environmental reasons. Where would residents place their refuse if it wasn’t collected? Perhaps this would lead to an increase in flytipping. Coun Box also goes on to say that almost two thirds of the people who took part in the consultation suggested raising council tax.

I haven’t heard of a consultation, maybe there was one on the internet, but not everybody can afford the internet. A bit like not being able to afford the inevitable increase in council tax, along with a probable increase in the social care precept. I think Coun Box needs to gather proper evidence for his views and stop publishing propaganda.

Raymond Mattocks

The Close, Pontefract

COUNCIL RESPONSE: In response to the letter from Raymond Mattocks, I would like to make it clear that we consulted widely with residents and local businesses on the budget proposals.

We highlighted the consultation in a press release and in the leader’s column, which were both published in the Express series. The information was also made available on the council’s website and was shared via the council’s social media channels.

Of the people who responded to the consultation it is indeed the case that two thirds said they were in favour of raising council tax.

This is not propaganda, this is the democratic process at work. We regularly consult with residents, whose views are vitally important and influence the decision-making process.

Coun Denise Jeffery

Cabinet member for economic growth and skills