THE final decision on increasing council tax by 12.5% is due this week.

For months discussions have been ongoing about the council’s financial struggles and three options – an increase of 5%, 8% and 12.5% - have been put forward.

It is the higher option that was coming out on top as the best solution to bridge a “large funding gap” faced by the local authority and it was agreed by the cabinet members last month that it be recommended to full council this week.

Cabinet member for finance Cllr Bob Kilmister has previously told members the increase equated to a £2.11 a week increase or £110 a year rise on an average band D property.

“That seems more palatable than 12.5 per cent,” said Cllr Kilmister.

He told the meeting that there was a £16.4million funding gap for 2018/19 and despite “identified cost reductions” of £10million something still needed to be done to avoid cuts to services.

“I’m absolutely determined we do the right thing and not dodge the issue.

"We have to make a step change on our council tax levels,” he added.

He told the cabinet meeting that there was a £16.4million funding gap for 2018/19 and despite “identified cost reductions” of £10million something still needed to be done to avoid cuts to services.

“I’m absolutely determined we do the right thing and not dodge the issue. We have to make a step change on our council tax levels,” he added.

Cllr Kilmister called the proposal the “longest political suicide note” adding: “I never thought when I took on this role that I would be recommending taking on such a large council tax rise.”

A report for full council states: “Due to Pembrokeshire having the lowest Band D Council Tax in Wales since 1996, it was £15m worse off in 2017-18 than it would have been if its Council Tax was at the average level for Wales.”

A recommendation to members that the Council Tax for Pembrokeshire County Council for the 2018-19 financial year be approved at £993.54 (Band ‘D’ Equivalent) – a 12.5% increase – be approved.

Full council will meet on Thursday, March 8 at 10am, County Hall. The meeting is open to the public and can be viewed online.