Kenneth said:

Hi everyone, Kenneth here.

"Last week, the Council set its budget for the coming year. It wasn’t easy, and I know many of you will feel the impact of the 15.6% increase in Council Tax as you live locally.

"It’s a significant rise and I understand the concerns it brings. But for over 20 years, our Council Tax has been amongst the lowest in Scotland while we’ve continued to deliver hundreds of services to a high standard.

"But given the financial pressures we’re under a steep increase was unavoidable to help balance our budget and protect vital services as much as possible.

"Even with this rise, the financial pressures remain. Rising costs and increasing demand mean difficult decisions had to be made - not just to safeguard essential services, but to ensure we can still invest in key areas like roads and schools, services people rely on.

"We’re also facing changes within our workforce as we move toward becoming a smaller, more financially sustainable council. I know that uncertainty around roles is difficult. It brings understandable worry, and we’ll do everything we can to support those affected through this process.

"Now that the budget is set, our focus must turn to the future. There’s still more to do to close the longer-term financial gap and find new ways of working. And that means continuing to adapt so we can still deliver the best possible services to our communities.

"I know change is never easy. And I appreciate that many of you are working under increased pressure. But every day, you step up and deliver for our communities - and that commitment doesn’t go unnoticed. 

"You understand the vital role the public sector plays, and I hope you’ll take real pride in knowing that your work makes a meaningful difference to people’s lives every single day.