Residents keen to make a difference in their local area will have an opportunity to put themselves forward for election to one of East Lothian’s community councils later this year.
Community councillors... ensure the voice of the community is heard on important issues of common interest and articulated to decision-makers
Nominations for community councillors across the county will open on Monday 1 September.
Anyone who is at least 16 years of age and is interested in getting involved will then have until Thursday 18 September to lodge nomination papers.
Depending on the number of nominations received for the places available per community council, elections will then be held with residents living in the corresponding community council area able to vote on Thursday 9 October.
Volunteers provide a vital link
Community councils are run on a voluntary basis by local people. They act as a vital link between East Lothian Council and the local area and give residents an opportunity to speak out on local issues of concern. Meetings are usually held once a month.
Each community council receives annual grant funding from East Lothian Council comprising a contribution towards their administration and insurance costs and a local priorities grant, which is calculated on a per capita formula.
East Lothian community councils are supported by the council's Connected Communities Manager for their area, providing a first point of contact on any local issues or requests for advice on groups’ operational matters.
‘Fantastic opportunity’
Councillor Colin McGinn, East Lothian Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people who are passionate about the community in which they live to play their part in helping their town or village be a great place to live.
“I’ve seen for myself what a massive difference our community councillors make across East Lothian. As well as being involved in a variety of projects which benefit fellow residents such as the organisation of firework displays, festivals and Christmas lights, they also are involved in volunteering projects which help to enhance the local environment and deliver improvements to amenities which are available for people of all ages to enjoy. Crucially, they ensure the voice of the community is heard on important issues of common interest and articulated to decision-makers and local authority members such as me and my colleagues.
“Being a community councillor can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. I would encourage people of all ages, including young people aged at least 16 who care deeply about the future of East Lothian, to consider putting themselves forward for election.”
Further information about the election, and how to get involved, will be published in the weeks ahead.