Mayo property tax increase proposed

COUNCILLORS in Mayo are being asked to approve an increase to Local Property Tax (LPT).

A proposal will come before them on Monday asking that the base rate of LPT be increased from its current 10% to 15% for the years 2026 to 2029 inclusive.

The decision to vary the base rate is a reserved function for elected members, and it's on the agenda for the full meeting of Mayo County Council next week.

The current 10% adjustment raised an additional €940,000 for the local authority last year, with €200,000 spent on hedge cutting and verge trimming and the balance to provide match funding for projects.

A memo circulated to members ahead of the meeting (published on the council website) sets out management's arguments in proposing an increase to provide extra finance to meet commitments next year, including €813,000 towards match funding for projects in the county.

The effect of varying the base rate by 1% would result in a payment change of 95 cent per annum for the lowest valuation band, which is for 62.4% of properties, and €2.35 per annum for a further 23.3% of properties.

Members of the public were invited to make submission on LPT for next year, with two valid submissions received.

One highlighted: 'Given the overall cost of living, which is exorbitant, we are finding it extremely difficult to live. There should be a fairer way in which property tax is computed - i.e. people with higher earnings/pensions who are in a position to pay as opposed to those of us on the State Pension.

The second submission urged there be no increase in LPT: 'When we bought our house we paid enough for the site and house build. Maybe ye should look at derelict buildings and houses left in disrepair and charge those people. With the cost of living, mortgages, and all the taxes we have to pay enough is enough. Very unfair to go after those that work.'