Port Erin Commissioners has announced that its local authority rate for the forthcoming financial year will be set at 385p, a below inflation increase of 1.85% from the current rate of 378p. This increase equates to an increase of £8.12 per annum or 16p per week for a typical 3-bedroom property within Port Erin. Port Erin Commissioners’ Chair Mr Godfrey Egee announced, “The Board continues to be mindful of the ongoing cost of living pressures facing many, so I am pleased that the Board has been able to set a realistic budget, below the current rate of inflation, which maintains an excellent value service for its ratepayers with continued investment in its assets and amenities. I feel it important to point out that Port Erin Commissioners local authority rate equates to just under 40% of the total rate bill residents will receive. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank the staff and officers for their hard work in continuing to provide local services for the residents of Port Erin. The delivery of excellent value services and efficiencies implemented during the last year are a testament to the diligence and expertise of the staff involved. As a local authority we continue to invest in improving Port Erin in line with maintaining high standards of good governance. The budget provides for further investment including various streetlighting schemes, improvement works within Athol Glen and works to address the landslips on the Raad ny Foillan to reopen the fantastic footpath across the brooghs. As the Board states each year, many costs are outside of its control, however the budgeting process ensures that all income and expenditure is reviewed and, where possible, and practical, adjusted. With December 2024 CPI inflation standing at 2.4% and continued cost pressures on the operation, after careful consideration, the Board has agreed to release £33,765 from its rate reserves to absorb some of the planned expenditure. As I stated last year, the George Herdman Library continues to provide a fantastic resource with great numbers of users across all ages seen over the past year, with various groups also making great use of the facility. The Board has been supportive of the new Local Economy Strategy from the Department of Enterprise and is looking forward to assisting the Department to support vibrancy within Port Erin by empowering community, enabling local retail, leisure and hospitality businesses. The public consultation exercises undertaken by the Commissioners last year provided a great insight into what people would like to see in Port Erin, so we intend to share this during the process. Port Erin Commissioners’ close working ties with Malew Parish Commissioners continues to work well and be of benefit to both authorities.” Mr Egee concluded by adding, "It is great to still hear people talking so positively about all that is happening in Port Erin and that it continues to be such a highly regarded place to live, work and visit. In April this year, we have the Local Authority General Elections. I can announce that I will not be seeking re-election having served on the Board since 2012, but I would wholeheartedly recommend those thinking of standing to get in touch with me or any other Board member or the Officers to discuss what can be a very rewarding, community minded role to help shape Port Erin.” To can view the budget breakdown HERE. Issued by Port Erin Commissioners on 29 January 2025
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