Midlothian Council seeks feedback on money-saving ideas.

Midlothian Council is reaching out to the community for their input on savings proposals in a bid to address a budget shortfall. The council is facing a budget gap of £9.41 million in 2025/26, which is projected to increase to £20.64 million by 2028/29.

The consultation period will run until Wednesday 20th November, providing residents with the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns. Council leader, Councillor Kelly Parry, acknowledged the need for tough decisions to be made in order to fulfill the council’s obligation to maintain a balanced budget.

Councillor Parry emphasised the importance of understanding how potential changes to service delivery would impact residents and their families. She highlighted the financial implications of a 1% increase in Council Tax, noting that it could generate an additional £670,000 annually for council services while costing the average Band D Council Tax payer £9 more per month.

The council is eager to gauge public sentiment on the possibility of a Council Tax increase and assess how other savings proposals may affect the local community. The feedback gathered during the consultation will be carefully considered by councillors during the full council meeting in December, leading up to the budget decision in early 2025.

Councillor Parry encouraged local residents and community groups to participate in the consultation process, underscoring the council’s commitment to advocating for fairer funding for Midlothian. She pointed out that Scottish Government funding comprises over 70% of local authorities’ budgets, but the funding model has not kept pace with the region’s population growth.

Midlothian is experiencing rapid expansion, coupled with a rising demand for essential services, presenting a significant challenge for the council. Despite efforts to secure additional funding at the national and UK levels, there is no guarantee that it would be sufficient to bridge the budget gap.

Therefore, collaboration with the community is crucial in identifying priorities and addressing the needs of local residents effectively. By engaging with the public and fostering open dialogue, the council aims to make informed decisions that align with the community’s interests and welfare.