Could you be a councillor? If you have ever wondered, how and what's involved, here's an easy guide. We currently have a vacancy. Click to view Vacancy Notice.
What Is The Role of A Parish Councillor?
The Parish Council is a corporate body of which the councillors are members. Parish Councillors are a representative of the community and should engage and consider the best interests of the people they represent. There is at least one monthly meeting where decisions are made on projects, planning, community assets and management. The position is voluntary and depending on how many projects and management issue you wanted to get involved in would depend on how much time you have to give.
How To Become A Councillor
There are 2 ways to become a councillor. The first option is by election. Every 4 years all 10 seats within the council are up for election. The election is ran by West Lindsey District Council, for full information please visit their website. The election involves standing as a candidate and completeing the relevant forms, the forms can be intimadating but West Lindsey District Council will help you.
If 10 or less candidates have stood for election, they are automatically elected, known as elected uncontested. If there are more than 10 candidates the parish will go to a full election process where the candidates with the most votes will gain one of the 10 seats.
During the 4 year period between elections, if an existing councillor resigns then the seat becomes available. The vacancy is advertised by the district council and if parish members do not call for the seat to be decided by election then the parish council can co-opt a member. The parish council will advertise the seat and ask for interested candidates to complete a co-option form. At the next meeting the parish council will vote on the candidates to fill the seat.
If you would like to find out more, please contact the clerk for an informal chat, tea and biscuits optional!