Local district council elections are taking place in the Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge area this May – and an event is to be held shortly to help residents decide whether they should become a candidate.
If you have ever thought about standing for election as a Sedgemoor District Council Councillor, with the local district elections taking place in 2019 this is the ideal time to begin to think about getting involved.
Anyone can be a councillor and your background, qualifications and occupation are not important.
All that matters is that you have a keen interest in your local community, can spare some time and are passionate about making a difference in Sedgemoor.
Support is available to help people carry out their duties and a financial allowance is payable to meet costs incurred.
Sedgemoor District Council is encouraging anyone who is enthusiastic about their community to come along to the second Becoming a Councillor – ‘Will you stand for it!’ information session which will take place on Tuesday 12th February 2019.
This event will take place at Sedgemoor District Council offices located in Bridgwater House, King Square, Bridgwater TA6 3AR, with doors open from 5.45pm for a 6.00pm start.
The evening will be focused on the practicalities of being a Councillor at Sedgemoor and the event promises to be an opportunity for members of the public to discover what it is like to be a councillor and represent the community they are part of.
To support the event the Council has produced a short guide to becoming a Councillor which is available on the Council’s website. You can also request a booklet or to book your place at this event email democratic.services@sedgemoor.gov.uk or call 0300 303 7804.
The Leader of the Council, Cllr Duncan McGinty, and Councillor Mick Lerry, Leader of the Opposition, will be speaking at the event, together with other staff that support them.
There will be opportunities to ask questions and for informal discussions and networking.
Cllr McGinty said: “Anyone considering standing for election in May 2019 will be made very welcome.”
“Being a Councillor can be a rewarding and worthwhile vocation but it is often underestimated how much work is involved in the role and what is expected of those elected.”
“We look forward to welcoming prospective candidates to come along and find out how the council works and where and how they could fit into the democratic decision making process.”
