How to become a parish or town councillor
Should I consider becoming a Town or Parish Councillor ?
Town and Parish councillors should have an active interest and concern for their local community. They represent local people and work in partnership with them and others when necessary. They help facilitate the provision of local services and facilities and take decisions that form the policy of the Council.
You should consider becoming a Parish or Town Councillor if:
- You want to do more for your community
- You want to spend your time productively
- You can think, listen and act locally
What's involved in becoming a Town or Parish Councillor?
It is possible to spend a lot of time on council work, but most people have jobs, families and hobbies that also demand a lot of time. However, as with most things, the more you put in, the more you (and your community) will get out.
The powers of the Town and Parish councils vary depending on how large and how active they are. Some meet infrequently (but at least four times a year, including one public meeting) and are responsible for very few matters. Other, larger, council's undertake many duties such as, managing cemeteries, allotments, and village halls, etc.
Councillors are not paid and have to abide by a local government code of conduct and declare their financial interests in the parish. Councillors must also declare a personal or prejudicial interest in any matter under discussion at a parish council meeting.
Election Timetable
Elections usually coincide with the election year of the Borough Council. The interval between elections is four years and therefore your term of office would normally be four years.
| Item | Due |
|---|---|
|
Publication of Notice of Election |
Not later than 25th day before day of election. |
|
Last date for nominations |
Not later than noon on the 19th day before election day. |
|
Publication of list of candidates |
Not later than noon on the 17th day before election day |
|
Last date for withdrawal |
Not later than noon on the 16th day before the election day. |
Eligibility and Requirements
A candidate for a Parish or Town Council is qualified if, when nominated -
- He or she is a British subject or Irish citizen,
- Is 18 years of age, and
- Is either in the list of electors for that Parish or Town or has during the whole of the preceding twelve months
- occupied land as owner or tenant in it, or
- had a principal place of work there, or
- resided in or within three miles of it.
What Next ?
If you are considering becoming a candidate for election you are recommended to contact Democratic Services, democraticservices@northwarks.gov.uk or telephone 01827 719222.
Other Useful Contacts
The County Secretary
Warwickshire and West Midlands Association of Parish and Town Council
25 Stoneleigh Deer Park
Stareton
Kenilworth
Warwickshire
CV8 2LY
Telephone: 02476 217349
email: walc@walc.org.uk
Website: www.walc.org.uk