EXCITING developments but possible council tax hikes are on the agenda for Kent, according to the county council’s leader.

In his New Year’s message to the county, Cllr Paul Carter gave an early indication of potentially high tax increases due to the high costs of taking care of abandoned asylum-seeking children.

He said that while the authority hoped to keep any rise as low as possible, some £30million of savings had to be made.

He said: “We would very much like to set council tax in line with the level of inflation (currently 4.2 per cent) but this will only be possible if the Government reimburses us for the full cost of looking after unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.

“Currently we are owed some £8million.”

Cllr Carter used his New Year message to wish the county a “happy and prosperous 2008” and said he was optimistic about the next 12months.

He noted KCC’s achievements during 2007, including receiving the highest level award by the Audit Commission, winning the Transport Authority of The Year award, and the successful introduction of the Kent Freedom Pass giving students aged 11 to 16 free travel on bus services.

He added it was an “extremely exciting time for education” and that KCC would continue to expand apprenticeship and vocational training programmes to help young people plug skills shortages in the commercial world.

“Quality employment opportunities are totally dependent upon a strong and growing economy,” he said.

“The county has so much to offer and there are so many exciting developments evolving around the county, from the potential for the London Array windfarm technology being serviced from Ramsgate harbour, exciting development opportunities at Manston Airport and the build out of the Turner Contemporary gallery to the Channel Tunnel Rail Link domestic services opening in 2009.

“Their effect in stimulating and supporting the Kent economy should not be underestimated.”

He added: “Working with our partners, we will continue to deliver the very best public services and help to stimulate the right climate for a growing, strengthening economy that will provide job opportunities for generations to come.

“I am very optimistic about the outlook for 2008 and beyond.”