Winterton Village News Headlines
PLUG INTO YOUR PARISH COUNCIL
March 2008
All parish councils rely on local residents volunteering to stand as parish councillors. The elections on Thursday 1 st May 2008 are being held for district councillors and parish councillors, where a parish has enough candidates to require a poll.
Could I be a Parish Councillor?
Any interested resident can decide to stand as a parish councillor. You do not need to have experience of local government and do not need to have or state a political allegiance. You do need to be nominated by two parish residents and submit a nomination form to your district council by noon on Friday 4th April 2008.
To stand as a Parish Councillor candidate it is essential that you:
- Are a United Kingdom or Commonwealth citizen, or a citizen of the Republic of Ireland , or a citizen of another European Union member state
- Live in, or within 3 miles of the parish or your principle place of work is in the parish
- Are aged 18 or over.
It is also very helpful if you:
- Have an interest in local issues
- Have an understanding and willingness to represent the views of the whole community
- Are able to attend regular evening meetings
- Have an interest in learning and developing your role in the community
Why should I be a Parish Councillor?
There are many reasons for becoming a parish councillor. Most people become parish councillors because they want to improve the local environment and the quality of life in the area, and gain the satisfaction that comes with making a difference locally. Other benefits are that you get to meet new people as well as becoming more active in your community.
What can I do next?
An open evening will be held on Monday 10 March at 7.30pm in the Church Room – to enable anyone who is considering becoming a Parish Councillor to meet with the current Councillors. This will be a very informal time - an ideal opportunity to answer any questions or clarify any concerns over a drink and buns!
Following this, Norfolk County Association of Parish & Town Councils will be running a workshop for people who are interested in becoming a Parish Councillor on Monday 17 March 2008 in Ormesby Village Centre, Station Road , Ormesby, from 7.30pm.
If you are interested in attending this workshop please ring the NCAPTC team on 01603 664869.
To stand as a parish councillor candidate you need to submit a nomination form to your local Borough Council by Friday 4 th April 2008. You can request a nomination form from 1 st March 2008, from:
- Your parish clerk: Pam Winter – 01493 393306
- Electoral services at your Borough Council, by phone or through their web site.