East Lothian First to Back Council Tax Rise in Scotland

East Lothian Council approved their new budget. Labour, the SNP, and others supported it. Only Conservatives opposed the plan, even though they were in talks. Council leader Hampshire was surprised by this.

The Conservatives said the budget hurt residents. Council taxes for Band D homes will rise to £1579.18 annually, up from £1435.62. This represents an increase of £143.56.

Hampshire said the tax increase brings in more money for public services. He stated that people want investment, not cuts, and are ok paying more for good services.

Adult social care will get £3.89 million more, while children’s services will get £2.75 million extra. Education is set to receive an additional £1.9 million. Homelessness and inclusion will each benefit from over £800,000.

Sports centers and the Brunton Theatre will also benefit, each receiving an extra £200,000. Some wanted social care funds to reopen a day center which closed in Musselburgh last year. Council staff said reopening it is a priority.

The Scottish Government gave the council funding. About £7.5 million was not for specific things. The government covered some National Insurance costs, with the council covering the remaining forty percent.

The tax hike plus funding balanced the budget. However, services must still save £900,000 this year. Hampshire appreciates the cross-party approach, saying it protects services and invests in education.

SNP leader Jardine called cooperation political maturity. She added that communities expect politicians to work together. It’s essential to fight poverty. Local leaders face tough decisions that require collaboration.

McGuire could not support the budget and wanted savings elsewhere. He suggested cutting funds to COSLA and unions. He thinks the budget neglects people’s financial struggles.