The Grampound Times
Christmas 2006 (Edition 43)
Our community in Cornwall
BRITISH DEMOCRACY AT WORK
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS
Every 4 years residents have their opportunity to say “Thank You” to those who seek to serve them as Councillors - at Parish or higher level by voting for them. The great blessing of our democratic system is of course that voting is a two edged sword and dissatisfaction can also be indicated.
Parish Council elections here in our Parish come around again in May 2007 when the nine seats (7 village and 2 Creed) become vacant for filling.
I must admit that I have never come across anyone who was prepared to say that democracy at all levels was not a good thing. It is after all one of the factors that makes our country better than some others. The national government itself seeks Councils to act out democracy by encouraging elections to be held. The national award of QUALITY STATUS achieved by very few Parish Councils, but worked hard for and achieved here in Grampound with Creed cannot be retained should an election not be used to fill vacant Council seats I it is therefore of very great importance.
The cost of holding a Local Election was historically met by the Borough Council from within their budget even though by statute the cost could have been recharged on. At the last election 4 years ago with budgetery constraints mounting Restormel Borough Council decided to recharge the estimated cost, £800, to the Parish. The cost of the election due next May will also now be recharged to local cost – amazingly however, not at the £800 plus inflation but at an increase of 100% to £1600! Your Parish Councillors give of their services on Council business absolutely free, with legitimate authorised allowances for travelling and attendance etc refused by all. If an election is held here the £1600 will have to be provided additionally by the rates that residents pay here in the Parish.
Having consulted with Mr. Truscott, an Officer of the Restormel Borough Council Electoral Office, I write this piece because I feel everyone should know where the responsibility for this very considerable escalation in local rates rests.
ROGER PAYNTER
© 2006 Grampound with Creed Parish Council