Sandwell's Council Tax Collection Rate Among Best in Country

Sandwell Council's council tax collection rate is the third best nationally for metropolitan councils.

The 97.9 per cent collection rate for 2008/9 is the highest ever achieved by Sandwell Council, up from 97.8 per cent in 2007/8.

Deputy council leader Councillor Steve Eling, cabinet member for strategic resources, said: "I would like to thank residents for being prompt payers.

"This is important revenue for payment of essential public services.

"Prompt payment aids the council's treasury management which helps us to be able to keep the level of council tax increases down.

"Prompt payment also takes on an added new importance during the current economic downturn as we seek to minimise its impact on council taxpayers and local businesses and be prompt payers ourselves to our suppliers."

Councillor Eling said people could make use of a direct debit facility offered by the council for paying council tax.

He added: "Given the economic climate, we would urge people to contact us at the earliest opportunity if they are experiencing financial difficulties so we can point them in the right direction for advice to help them avoid falling into debt."

For information on direct debit facility and general advice, contact 0845 351 0015.