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Flagship Reform council proposes to raise tax almost 4% after pledging cuts

On Thursday, Kent County Council published its draft 2026-27 budget, revealing a 3.99% council tax increase with a final decision set for February 12.
After the May local elections, the new administration argued the authority faced a very serious financial situation, saddled with hundreds of millions in debt, aiming to stabilise finances after Reform UK overturned a 30-year Tory majority.
Ms Kemkaran defended the proposal, saying the 3.99% rise protects frontline services and `In fact, many services will see increased spending because of the difference they make to people's lives`, while Reform campaign leaflets promised to cut waste and reduce taxes.
Opposition Liberal Democrats said Reform broke election pledges and accused financial mismanagement, intensified by a leaked video last year and the expulsion of three councillors.
Across other Reform-led councils, officials warned that saving £10 million can lead to a £20 million loss, with the government potentially reducing grants by another £10 million, making the total loss £20 million.

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Impartial Reporter

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Flagship Reform council proposes to raise tax almost 4 after pledging cuts

Kent County Council produced a draft budget for 2026-27 on Thursday evening, revealing a 3.99 council tax hike.

11 hours ago

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Daily Mirror

Lean Left

Reform UK's flagship council plots tax hike of 4% - 'total betrayal' - The Mirror

Reform UK's flagship council has been accused of betraying election promises as it proposed a council tax hike of almost 4%.

13 hours ago·London, United Kingdom

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The Independent

Lean Left

Flagship Reform council plans to raise tax by almost 4% – despite pledging cuts

In real terms, an average Band D household will see council tax increase by an estimated £67.47 per year under the changes

15 hours ago·London, United Kingdom

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Kent Live News

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Flagship Kent Reform council proposes to raise tax almost 4% after pledging cuts

Reform UK's "flagship" local authority has raised council tax by almost four per cent despite pledges to cut taxes before last year's local elections. Kent County Council (KCC) produced its draft budget for 2026-27 on Thursday evening (January 8), revealing a 3.99 per cent council tax hike.

16 hours ago·Kent, United Kingdom

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