Could You Become a Town Councillor?

Could you become a Town Councillor, is a question we need people to start asking themselves and each other?

I joined St Just Town Council back in November 2007, when there was a by-election. In 2013 I became your local Cornwall Councillor but I did not seek re-election to Town Council that year and that was a year when there were no elections for St Just Town Council as not enough people put themselves forward. As the Town Council needs 12 Town Councillors, if 12 or less people agree to stand, there is no election and all those that stand automatically become Town Councillors.

In 2017, there was a very different situation, with 20 candidates standing, including me and I got the most votes (thank you). In May this year, the Town Council elections take place again but by 8 April, candidates have to have submitted papers to stand. I will look to stand again for Town Council, and I hope some of you will join me. I will not be standing for Cornwall Council but I’m hoping you will support Chris Denley, to ensure that what residents have said they want for Cornwall, can be delivered as the Liberal Democrats are committing to make what residents have said they want, the heart of their manifesto.

Last election, we had some community candidates stand and 3 out of 4 of them got elected. They were not of one Political group but all wanted to ensure the community came first in what they said and did. Current Town Councillor, Debbie Shepherd, would love to hear from anyone that thinks having community candidates again, is a good idea, especially if interested in becoming one! Debbie’s contact details are: 01736 787707 or 0780055562 or email debbieshephard@gmail.com.

If you want to know more about being a town councillor, the Cornwall Association of Local Councils has produced a guide. A Councillor Who Me 2021