In attempting to set a balanced budget, the council said one of the biggest challenges remains the fact that the cost of delivering services and the demand for these services have both increased, while funding levels have not risen to meet these pressures.

The cost of ensuring that these services continue to be provided for residents in East Dunbartonshire each year is approximately £322 million.

As with the previous ten years, in 2025/26 the council continues to face a funding gap. This means that ways to increase income or make savings must be agreed.

Councillors will make their decisions on the budget in February, but right now the council wants residents and businesses in the area to have their say to help guide these decisions.

The consultation will run until Thursday 19 September and the survey can be found on the consultation webpage.

It should take around ten minutes to complete and paper copies can be requested via Customer Services.

In addition, the council is offering digital assistance sessions for completing this year’s survey.

During these sessions, East Dunbartonshire Council staff will provide residents with support in completing the survey.

Details of the sessions:

• 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 encouraging residents to give their views on what they believe matters most.

Councillor Low said, “This is an opportunity for local people to share their views so that their feedback and priorities can inform the decisions we make to help us close the budget gap.

“The public sector is under tremendous pressure, and we know that setting a balanced budget for 2025/26 will once again be difficult.

“There are four key areas where we are inviting people to share their views: Health & Wellbeing, Access to Services, Finance & Employment and Community & Environment.

“This is especially important given the difficult decisions we’re likely to face in this time of continuing economic challenges. It is important to understand what services and priorities matter most to you. We would like to encourage as many residents as possible to complete our survey.

“We are appreciative of people taking the time to share their views. As a thank you for taking part, everyone who completes a survey form and includes their details will be entered into a draw to receive one of five foodstore vouchers.”

After the consultation closes on Thursday 19 September, the results will be analysed and shared with both Officers and Elected Members.