Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Share your views on East Dunbartonshire Council budget priorities!
East Dunbartonshire Council has kickstarted its latest Budget consultation in preparation for its upcoming meeting early next year to finalise the 2025/2026 budget.
Striving to achieve a balanced budget, the council highlighted the ongoing challenge of escalating service delivery costs and demands, paired with stagnant funding levels. The annual cost of providing services to East Dunbartonshire residents amounts to approximately £322 million.
Just like the past decade, the council anticipates a funding gap in 2025/26. As a result, decisions will need to be made on increasing revenue or implementing cost-saving measures.
Councillors are scheduled to deliberate on the budget in February. However, the council is now seeking input from residents and businesses in the area to help shape these crucial decisions.
The consultation period will run until Thursday 19 September, and the survey is accessible on the consultation webpage.
Completing the survey should only take around ten minutes, while paper copies can be requested via Customer Services. Moreover, the council is offering digital assistance sessions to aid individuals in completing this year’s survey.
The details of these sessions are as follows:
- Kirkintilloch Community Hub – Tuesday 10 September at 2pm – 4pm
- Bishopbriggs Community Hub – Thursday 12 September at 2pm – 4pm
- Lennoxtown Community Hub – Tuesday 17 September at 2pm – 4pm
Council leader Gordan Low is urging residents to voice their opinions on their priorities and concerns.
Councillor Low stated, “This is an opportunity for local individuals to express their views, enabling their feedback and priorities to influence the decisions we make to address the budget deficit.
“The public sector is facing significant pressures, and we understand that establishing a balanced budget for 2025/26 will present its own challenges.
“We are seeking input on four key areas: Health & Wellbeing, Access to Services, Finance & Employment, and Community & Environment.
“Given the tough decisions ahead in these times of economic uncertainty, understanding which services and priorities hold the most importance to you is crucial. We encourage as many residents as possible to participate in our survey.
“We sincerely appreciate individuals taking the time to share their perspectives. As a token of our gratitude, everyone who completes the survey and provides their details will be entered into a draw to win one of five foodstore vouchers.”
Once the consultation period concludes on Thursday 19 September, the findings will be analysed and shared with both Officers and Elected Members for further consideration.
