On Wednesday (28 August) Julian Smith met with North Yorkshire Council (NYC) Chief Executive, Richard Flinton, and council leader, Cllr Carl Les, at County Hall in Northallerton to discuss a range of issues from housing to growth.
During the meeting Mr Smith, Mr Flinton and Cllr Les discussed initiatives the council is taking on affordable housing and how it is using the benefits of the second home premium - a council tax surcharge that may be imposed on properties that are furnished but not used as a person's primary residence, such as holiday homes. The meeting also covered schools funding and challenges to council budgets.
Commenting on the meeting Mr Smith said, “North Yorkshire Council is an effective council with several positive rankings in areas such as social services and education. However, like all councils, there are instances where constituents need further assistance with council services.
“There are many issues I raise with the council each year on behalf of constituents and my job, along with other North Yorkshire MPs, is to also represent the council at Westminster. This meeting was a great opportunity to raise constituency issues and learn more about the pressures to the council’s budgets.
“I look forward to continue working with the officer and councillor teams over the coming period ahead.”
