IF YOU CARE ABOUT WHERE YOU LIVE AND ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY, WE NEED YOU
MAKE A CHANGE BECOME A LOCAL COUNCILLOR IN 2019
Have you ever considered becoming a Parish Councillor? What does a Councillor do? Perhaps your impression of what a Councillor does is just attending council meetings. In fact Parish Councils make all kinds of decisions on issues that affect the local community.
One of the most important tasks for a Councillor is to listen and be a voice for the community. To give you a feel for the way in which you could influence the lives of local people here are some of the things keeping West Hill Councillors busy at the moment
- working with Traffic Consultants to identify measures that would reduce speeds, improve safety and enhance walkability.
- the Council is looking for an “Open Space” in the village which could provide outdoor facilities and activities for residents across all age groups.
- working with Devon Air Ambulance to establish a landing site in the village
Plus, each month there are usually planning applications to be considered.
At the upcoming election on 2nd May West Hill Parish Council will have vacancies as several current Councillors will be standing down.
The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) Local Councillor Census Survey found that councillors put aside, on average, three hours a week for council work. This often includes attending meetings, engaging with residents and speaking on behalf of the council to other bodies.
There are only a few rules to stand for election. You must be:
• A British citizen, or a citizen of the Commonwealth, or the European Union
• 18 years of age or older
• Live in an area that is served by a local council
The best way to find out what it’s like to be a Parish Councillor is to talk to someone who’s doing it now. You may want to come along to the Parish Council meeting on 2nd April or speak to one of our Councillors and find out what they think of the role. Contact details can be found on the Parish website.
East Devon District Council website sets out the eligibility criteria in detail and provides more information on the role of a Councillor. www.eastdevon.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/becoming-a-councillor/
The deadline for nominations is 4pm Wednesday 3rd April. Please contact me if you would like a nomination paper pack or more information.
Parish Clerk: Anne Oliver 01404 232 100 or 07413 932406
