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Highest ever collection rates

Published: 19/06/2014

New figures published by the Welsh Government show that Flintshire is the top authority in North Wales and joint top across the whole of Wales for the collection of council tax. In 2013-14, the Council collected 97.9 per cent of council tax, the highest in-year collection rate ever achieved in Flintshire – and an increase of 0.1 per cent on the previous year. An increase of 0.1 per cent may only sound a small figure but in hard cash it equates to £60,000 of extra income. As well as maximising collection, the council tax service continues to transform the way it operates by making it easier for residents to pay their bills. Households in Flintshire can now pay by weekly direct debits – one of few councils in Wales to offer such a flexible payment scheme. Flintshire residents can also elect to receive their bills by email and with emails being sent out same day there will never any issue of bills being delayed in the post. Residents who sign up to receive bills electronically will still have the choice to download and print bills. Commenting on the announcement, Councillor Aaron Shotton, Leader of the Council said: “It’s a great achievement, especially in the current economic climate and it’s also good news for Flintshire residents meaning more money is coming into the Council sooner to help pay for vital front line services. “Im delighted that we have improved our council tax collection rate for the sixth year running where we have either maintained or improved our collection position.” Cllr Shotton went on to say that: “We also recognise that some households may struggle to pay and we would urge anyone who is finding it difficult to pay to make early contact with the council tax service so that we can provide practical help and guidance on the best way to pay.”