Braddan Commissioners have confirmed their Parish rate is to reduce from ?2.15 to ?2.05 for 2016/17.

This was made possible through "sound financial management which also ensured they can continue to provide a high quality service to their ratepayers."

The Commissioners confirmed that they had been able to lower the rate due to income from a number of new properties as well as a reduction in administration costs.

Chairman, Mr Jessopp stressed that with a greater participation in the kerbside recycling service there would be further opportunities to reduce the rate again in coming years.

Mr Jessopp said: “We have adopted a similar policy to last year in that we have only budgeted to spend what we collect, but I have to reiterate that if operating costs increase in the future - whether this is through imposed costs by outside agencies or internal
decisions - this may be reflected by the rates having to increase again”.

He went on to say, “Whilst this reduction in the rate is not a response to counteract the increased sewerage tax it will lessen the blow for our ratepayers.”

Mr Jessopp added, “We have been able to take over services transferred from Central Government within budget allowance and would welcome further discussions on services from central government that we feel we are better placed to provide; although we will not take on additional responsibilities just for the sake of it. There will have to be a good reason why we should provide the service rather than central government.”

In addition to the general running of the Authority their budgeted projects for the forthcoming year are:

- An extension to the skate park at Grianagh Park
- Repainting lighting columns
- Repairs to the surface of their 3 playground areas
- Funding set aside for continuation of our Cycling strategy
- Improvements to pathways, greenways and roadways in partnership with DOI
- Partnership arrangements with DEFA for Byelaw control within Millennium Oakwood, Glens and Plantations in the Parish

The Commissioners are still pressing on with their flagship plans to build a community centre at Strang Corner Field, but any early costs will be met from their reserves. A planning application is to be submitted shortly.

Mr Jessopp confirmed that the Commissioners will not be hosting a Parish Day this year, owing to the workload on their staff who will be preparing for the Election.

However, the Commissioners would still very much like some community events to be held around the Parish during the year. Therefore, to help facilitate these events they are prepared to offer some financial support if any Parishioners would like to organise
something in their area.

And finally, the Board has resolved to find ways of working more closely with their immediate neighbours, and fellow authorities in the new constituency of Middle - Santon and Marown - to see if there are any shared services and economies of scale they can all
benefit from.