Council tax in Glasgow may rise by 7% as councillors debate the budget, potentially boosting key services.
Some funds would support key areas, including street cleaning, parks, and fixing potholes. The council is talking to the Green group, hoping to reach a budget deal like they have in past years.
Last year, they agreed on £25m in cuts and increased charges for 2025/26. Cllr Bell said the government gave them more money; it is £36m above expectations.
The council plans to invest some of this extra money and raise more funds. A council tax rise is likely, and they will dedicate some money to priority areas.
The SNP decided to stop planned education cuts, which involved teacher job losses. This decision followed talks with the EIS union; the Greens also want to stop these cuts.
Cllr Bell said cuts to teachers were unwanted and they lacked sufficient money. More money came from the Scottish Government, and now they removed teacher cuts.
Rising national insurance costs put pressure on the council, as they face a £10.2m pressure. A special fund, created in 2022, could cover these costs.
Cllr Bell spoke about the investment plans, stressing the need for improvement. He hopes this budget will put them back on track, though it will not solve everything quickly. Citizens should see visible improvements across Glasgow once the investment begins.