Selby District Council agreed at a meeting last night (Tuesday 9 February) to limit the increase in its part of the Council Tax charge to just 2.5%. This is the seventh year in a row that the authority has set the annual rise at no more than the yearly rate of inflation.

Selby District Council's part of the annual payment equates to approximately 10% of the total Council Tax bill, with levies charged by other organisations delivering local services. During 2009/10 those living in a Band D property have paid Selby District Council £155 for the year. This will rise by only £3.88 over the coming year, representing an increase of just 7 pence per week per household.

The full rates for each household for the year will be decided next month, once the charges from North Yorkshire County Council, North Yorkshire Police, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and each area's parish or town council have been agreed. These make up the majority of the Council Tax charge.

Leader of Selby District Council, Cllr Mark Crane, said, "Keeping any rate rise low is especially important at the moment, given that many people continue to struggle financially because of the economic downturn.

"Our focus continues to be on delivering the key services that people need in more efficient and effective ways. The Council has clear priorities and long-term goals, which have been developed in partnership with our community, to make sure that we focus our efforts on the issues that matter most to you and your family.

"The next year won't be easy, as whatever the outcome of the general election all public sector organisations are facing a squeeze. But I believe we're well placed to deal with this because of our work to deliver services as efficiently as possible, to look at where we can benefit from working with others and focus on the issues that really matter."

Final Council Tax rates, incorporating levies from all other organisations, will go before a Selby District Council meeting due to be held on Tuesday 2 March.