A major community consultation exercise has been launched to allow residents and local groups in East Lothian to express their views on how the Council should be spending its money over the next three years.

“You pay… now have your say!” is designed to give local people the opportunity to set out their own priorities when it comes to maintaining and improving local services and facilities in their area. East Lothian Council is asking residents if they think that public money could be spent more wisely, to keep the council tax down or to divert funds to more pressing needs.

A detailed budget consultation paper has been produced and is available in local council offices, libraries and sports centres. The paper can also be viewed or downloaded at www.eastlothian.gov.uk where you can also post comments. Community Councils, representatives of the business community and other local groups are also being sent copies, and all have until 19 December to respond with their views. The Council will agree its three-year budget at a special meeting in early February of next year.

“A budget consultation with the public has been done only once before and never on this scale,” explained Council Leader, Councillor Dave Berry. “Our aim is to offer professional frontline services on which our residents depend, while seeking to improve quality of life and minimise the council tax required to do so. In the present year of zero tax rise, we are on course to achieve that. But the current financial climate, with fuel costs soaring and funds limited, presents crucial choices. Our 'Contract with the People' said 'we will endeavour to discuss and decide all key matters in public after consulting with those most affected'. As we have done with coastal car parking, budget decisions with lasting impact on our communities must be discussed with those communities - this is your opportunity.”

Depute Council Leader, Councillor Stuart Currie, also backed the call for local residents, community councils and other local groups to voice their opinions on the things that matter most to them when it comes to setting spending levels for next year.

“We have clearly stated that our aim as a Council is to consult widely on key issues and to listen to and act on, the concerns of our communities,” said Councillor Currie. “This budget consultation is a major opportunity for local people to influence the work of the Council and to guide us in setting our spending priorities.

“Clearly, there will never be enough money available to meet every request for new or improved services and local facilities, but we are keen to target our resources at those areas which are considered a priority,” added Councillor Currie. “Again, we would welcome the opinions of those who pay council tax and live and work in our communities, on how best we can achieve this.”

If you would like to express your views on how the Council should be spending its money, visit www.eastlothian.gov.uk; email youpayhaveyoursay@eastlothian.gov.uk or write to David Spilsbury, Head of Corporate Finance, East Lothian Council, John Muir House, Haddington EH41 3HA. Copies of the budget consultation paper are available on the Council's website, in area offices and libraries or by telephoning 01620 827873.

ENDS
28 October 2008

Issued by David Russell, Communications and Marketing. Tel. 01620 827655. Email drussell@eastlothian.gov.uk