Labour and Conservative councillors in Brighton & Hove have voted against holding a referendum on the proposed 4.75% council tax increase.
The increase was proposed by the Green party to fund adult social care services, such as care for the elderly.
Cllr Jason Kitcat, leader of the council, said: 'We heard lots of rhetoric today but nothing of any credible opposition alternatives to our plans.
'As a city we face having to cut £100m from the council budget in the next few years whilst meeting growing demand for key services. This is a major challenge which all parties need to be open about, as we have.
'Given Labour's pro-austerity policies, and councillor Morgan's knee-jerk reaction to our proposal, I can't say I'm surprised they want to implement additional cuts.
'What's disappointing is that they want to block the opportunity for residents to have a say on local services,'Kitcat added.
The Green party has said it will take the decision to Full Council on 27 February.