The chief executive of Powys County Council has said she “does not envisage” another hike in council tax next year during a meeting in Machynlleth.

Dr Caroline Turner was invited by One Voice Wales to their Montgomeryshire Area Meeting at the Owain Glyndwr Institute on 18 June.

Dr Turner, who was accompanied by county council director Nigel Brinn, told councillors that “she did not envisage another hike in council tax like this next year”, minutes of the meeting reveal, in response to concerns over a 9.5 per cent rise imposed in April.

Concerns over the hike were raised by Derrick Pugh of Trefeglwys Community Council who said that while he “respects the financial position of the council”, the “public cannot sustain these increases year on year”.

“If the council puts up its council tax by the same amount next year, that’s an increase of 19 to 20 per cent in two years,” Cllr Pugh said.

“These increases are creating poverty and unrest within families who are trying to meet their monthly bills.”

Dr Turner said that she and the council’s Cabinet were “aware” of concerns.

She added that the council is facing “huge challenges” and “tough decisions are going to be made due to the unfavourable settlement the council receives from the Welsh Assembly”.

Overall, £12m savings will need to be made over the next financial year, with further savings in the pipeline.

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