Hertford Town Council has set its precept for the 2021/22 year. In a unanimous vote, HTC will increase its precept by 2%, equating to just 17p a month more for a Band D household. 

Cllr Peter Ruffles, Chairman of the Finance Policy and Administration Committee said: 

“The prudent management of our finances is a priority for Hertford Town Council. Our budget is carefully considered and sustainable. We are proud that unlike many other councils we have not increased our precept at all for each of the years 2014/15, 2015/16 and 2017/18 while at the same time continuing to invest in existing services, and initiatives to meet the needs of our town and its residents. 

In a year of uncertainty it has been important to carefully consider a budget that will enable the Town Council to continue to deliver a range of initiatives including supporting the town centre, a varied events programme, continued development of Neighbourhood Plans and continued good management of churchyards, the cemetery and the town’s allotments at six sites in Hertford, Hertingfordbury and Bengeo”. 

The Council continues to support wide range of organisations through its grants programme. There are two separate grant funds and the details are available on the Council’s website at https://www.hertford.gov.uk/services/grants/

• For Local organisations and charities up to £1,200 is available for small projects or necessary purchases or repairs or for initiatives to help the community during the pandemic 
• For any Hertford based projects or businesses grants of up to £30,000 is available to enhance and improve communities in Hertford 

The next round of grant applications for both of these grant funds will be considered at the Council’s Finance Policy and Administration Committee meeting on Monday 19 March 2021.