Councillors set to discuss property tax projects

COUNCILLORS in the Tuam MD are set to meet later this month to discuss how to allocate their Local Property Tax (LPT) funds.

Back in September 2024 councillors voted in favour of increasing the LPT by 15 per cent for the next five years, a move that generates €2.37 million for Galway County Council per annum.

This allowed for €800,000 per year to been ringfenced for projects across the five municipal districts, with the Tuam MD receiving €143,590 per annum. This is divided equally between the district’s seven councillors. They can choose to spend it on individual projects, or pool together their funds for larger scale projects.

However, some councillors voiced their concerns that they had not been given any opportunity to allocate funds in 2026. Many also wanted clarity on if they could use the money to buy equipment for community groups, such as Tidy Towns Committees.

“As long as it is a capital project and not money to help with their day-to-day running costs, anything that can help volunteer organisations can be suggested by councillors,” explained Director of Services for Tuam Michael Owens at last week’s MD meeting.

“I would ask that you all submit your LPT proposals as soon as possible ahead of a remote meeting later this month, so we have a chance to delve into the costs of your projects and see if they are feasible.

“I will also send out information to each councillor prior to the meeting so that they are aware of how much money they have left to allocate this year,” he concluded.