Dundee set to consult on budget amid £15.6m shortfall

Dundee set to consult on budget amid £15.6m shortfall

Dundonians could be given a chance to share their views before the city council’s budget is set early next year.

A report to go before the City Governance Committee on Monday recommends carrying out a public consultation which includes seeking feedback on a range of potential savings options to help set a balanced budget.

If approved, the consultation would get underway later this month and run for four weeks. Citizens would be able to respond online or through paper forms available in libraries and community centres.

The council wants to ensure that as many people as possible take part in the proposed consultation, which is more detailed than in previous years. Participants can give feedback on the impact specific changes would have, and final budget decisions can take these into account.

It comes as Dundee City Council faces saving an estimated £15.6 million when the 2025/26 budget is set early next year.

Councillor Mark Flynn, leader of Dundee City Council, said: “The financial challenges faced by the council make the decisions that we have to take in order to set a balanced budget more and more difficult every year.

“Savings and efficiencies totalling £171m have been made since 2008, and we think we may have to save another £15.6m next year. Like households, our bills for things like utilities and services continue to go up.

“So while we are focused on protecting frontline services in next year’s budget, the reality is that the tough choices we make will impact on the lives of all our citizens.

“That’s why it’s more important than ever that people have a chance to have their say on the options which have been put forward by officers. The budget consultation is the way to do that.

“You can tell us what areas you think we should be prioritising with the limited resources at our disposal. You can tell us your thoughts on the level of Council Tax for next year.

“And, for the first time this year, you can give specific feedback on a range of ideas that have been put forward by Council officers as we seek to bridge the funding gap.

“I must stress that no decisions have been taken. What we need to do is listen to the views of people, to understand their priorities and any impacts that changes will have on them.

“The more people who take part, and the more detailed feedback given, the more informed our decision making will be.”

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