Wakefield councilors could vote to freeze their allocations at a meeting next week.

Council leader Denise Jeffery said residents were struggling with the cost of living and she felt councilors should not agree to an increase.

The Labour-led authority is also facing growing financial pressures, like many others across the country.

According to figures from Wakefield Council, almost £1.3 million was paid to its 63 elected members in the last financial year.

THE Local democracy information service said councilors are expected to vote in favor of the freeze at a full council meeting on November 27.

Elected councilors are entitled to claim basic allowances and expenses, in accordance with the recommendations of an independent remuneration panel (IRP).

A review of compensation was last carried out in 2021, when the panel recommended elected officials give themselves a 2.75% increase.

Councilors from all three main parties voted unanimously against the proposed increase, a move which saved the local authority around £32,000.

“It’s important to us”

Speaking at a meeting last month, Jeffery said: “I think we shouldn’t increase this year.

“People are struggling with the cost of living, not only across the country but throughout our region. This is close to our hearts.”

She added that she hoped everyone would agree but that this issue would be discussed in detail at the meeting.

All members are entitled to a basic allowance, which currently stands at £1,159 per month, according to figures released in September.

Additionally, advisers are eligible for a basic supplement, of between £707 and £804 per year, mainly to cover travel costs.

Some advisors also receive special liability allowances.

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