Council tax is to soar by five per cent in South Ayrshire.
Beancounters took the "difficult decision" to hike the rates at a budget meeting this morning.
Councillors claimed the move was "vital" for the continuation of frontline services - and claimed their call had been "unavoidable".
Tory leader Martin Dowey said: "Despite many financial variables, I'm pleased we've been able to deliver a balanced budget for the year 2023/24.
"As the cost-of-living crisis continues to affect us all, I know the decision to raise Council Tax may not be welcomed by residents.
"However, it has been unavoidable in order for us to continue to deliver the services that matter most to our communities.
"The people of South Ayrshire have been at the forefront of our minds as we made our decisions, and I'm confident that we've been able to deliver for them."
As part of the wider budget, a total capital investment programme of £447 million is being proposed for towns and villages over the next 12 years.
A total of £1 million is being invested in every ward in South Ayrshire as part of the plans.
Darley and Belleisle Golf Courses will receive £5 million worth of upgrades over the next three years to ensure they are kept in top condition for players.
Plans for The International Ayr Show - Festival of Flight have been further fleshed out with Prestwick-based construction firm Ashleigh (Scotland) Ltd unveiled as a major sponsor of the event.
Ayr's Citadel Centre will receive a £10 million fund aimed at breathing new life into its tired walls over the next four years.
And some £96 million is being invested in the council's Health and Social Care Partnership, an increase of 3.4 per cent on previous years.
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