Local democracy shapes every part of our lives—from the services we receive to the taxes we pay. Yet, it’s buried jargon, and hard to engage with. In this Residents Guide, we break down the key points from today’s East Riding of Yorkshire Full Council meeting. We’ll explain the key agenda points that your councillors are discussing and why they matter. We hope this will help people further engage with the issues and hold their local representatives to great account.
1. Council Tax for 2025-26: A 4.99% Increase
One of the most significant items on the agenda tomorrow is the final council tax resolution for the year ahead. While the 4.99% increase in council tax was already decided at the last meeting, tomorrow’s session will formally approve the details and finalize the figures, including precepts set by the Police, Fire Services, and special expenses.
- Council Tax: The average Band D council tax will rise to £1,871.10, which includes the 2% increase for adult social care.
- Precepts: Special expenses, along with precepts from the Police and Fire Services, will also be considered. These charges help fund vital local services like emergency services and, in the case of special expenses, maintenance of local areas.
Why it matters: While the council tax hike has already been approved, tomorrow’s meeting will finalise the specifics. The increase will affect how much you pay, but the additional funding for adult social care means better services for vulnerable residents. However, it also comes with financial strain for households, particularly those already struggling.
2. Coastal Erosion: Urgent Motion for Action
Councillor Handley has proposed an urgent motion regarding the rising threat of coastal erosion along the East Riding coastline. In light of devastating reports from the Environment Agency, the motion calls for an urgent meeting with the Minister to discuss government support for affected communities.
Why it matters: Coastal erosion threatens homes, businesses, and entire communities along the East Riding coastline, including areas like Withernsea and Bridlington. If you live in these areas, the council’s response will affect your safety, your property’s value, and your local environment.
3. Domestic Abuse Awareness: A Motion for Transparency
Councillor Whyte has put forward a motion calling on Humberside Police to include domestic abuse statistics in their monthly newsletters, making this hidden crime more visible. The motion also recommends better engagement with local communities to raise awareness and improve support systems.
Why it matters: Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue that often goes unnoticed. By pushing for this increased transparency, the council aims to give communities the tools to help victims of abuse, making it easier for you to spot signs and report concerns. Increased support also improves the safety of those affected.
4. Social Care: Financial Pressures and Transformation
Social care services for both adults and children are under extreme financial pressure. The council is grappling with a projected £11.3 million deficit and will consider a transformation plan to ensure services remain sustainable. This includes reallocating resources and restructuring departments.
Why it matters: Social care impacts the elderly, vulnerable children, and adults who rely on support services. Budget cuts could lead to reduced care options, while restructuring aims to prevent those cuts by streamlining services. How this unfolds will affect the quality of care available in your community.
5. Housing and Rent Increases
The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) for 2025-26 includes a proposed 2.7% rent increase for council houses. Additionally, the council will review other fees and charges related to housing, as well as housing development projects that are underway or planned for the future.
Why it matters: Rent hikes are a tough pill to swallow, particularly for those already facing financial difficulties. However, these increases help to fund maintenance and improvements to council homes. If you live in a council property or are concerned about local housing developments, these discussions are crucial for you.
6. Planning and Development: Key Projects to Watch
The council is set to discuss planning applications, including proposals for residential care homes and new housing developments. Some planning applications will be reviewed in greater detail, and any changes in policies will be considered to ensure they meet the growing needs of the region.
Why it matters: Local development shapes the community around you. Whether you’re concerned about the environmental impact of new housing or want to understand how care homes will be integrated into your neighborhood, these planning decisions are important. The council will also discuss how to integrate better planning practices that align with the local needs.
7. Amendments to the Constitution: More Rules, More Efficiency
There are proposed changes to the council’s constitution, focusing on improving governance, particularly in the way disciplinary and grievance matters are handled. This includes changes in how grievances are addressed for senior staff.
Why it matters: These constitutional amendments ensure the council remains efficient and transparent. They outline how staff disputes are managed and will help ensure that council leadership is held accountable. While it may seem like an administrative matter, these rules affect how your council operates day-to-day.
8. Looking Ahead: The Council Business Plan
Finally, the council will review its Business Plan for 2025-2026. The plan includes a set of priorities designed to guide the local government’s work over the coming year, including economic growth, environmental protection, and supporting vulnerable residents.
Why it matters: The Business Plan sets the tone for how the council prioritizes local needs, from economic development to environmental protection. If you care about where your local taxes go and what the council’s main focus will be, this discussion will provide valuable insight into the direction your council is heading.
Why Should You Care?
This council meeting will make decisions that directly impact your taxes, local services, and even your property value. The budget discussions, social care transformation, and planning decisions will shape the way East Riding develops in the near future.
By attending, watching online, or reading up on the agenda, you have the chance to participate in important decisions that affect your daily life. Democracy isn’t just about voting—it’s about being engaged and making your voice heard.
Ways to make your voice heard.
Visit the East Riding Council Website to download the full agenda or learn about making a residents petition to full council
Watch all council meetings live or on record on the East Riding Council’s YouTube Channel