A petition of nearly 1,300 signatures opposing rent rises for voluntary groups, small businesses and charities was handed in to Luton Borough Council this week.
The Don’t Price Us Out campaign, run by the Luton News, is calling on the council to re-think its new policy of imposing market rates across the town.
Two Luton scout groups fear they could close because of the increases.
St Augustines have been told their rent will go up from £150 a year to £8,000, while for Sells 7th it will go up to £4,500 a year.
And the Age Concern shop in Farley Hill has been told its rent could go up by 50 per cent.
In accordance with tradition, Sells Seventh members handed out orders of service and formed a guard of honour for councillors at the recent Remembrance Sunday service.
District commissioner Martin Wesley said: “It is an honour which they wish to continue despite the possibility of having to close their HQ due to massive rent increase proposals by the council.”
The authority says it must increase rents due to huge budget cuts by central government.
But at a full council meeting tonight (Weds), Conservative group leader Michael Garrett will table a motion calling for a rethink.
He said: “It’s a political decision, they’re in control and they can decide to make an exception.
“Luton benefits a great deal from the scouts. They keep kids off the streets, teach them to be good citizens and give them skills that will make them more employable in the future.”