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Becoming a councillor
Have you ever thought of standing for election and becoming a
councillor? Would you be interested in playing a vital role in the
services provided by Havant Borough Council and help shape the
future of the community?
Havant Council has 38 councillors who represent the 14 wards of
the borough. Ten wards have three councillors each and the four
Leigh Park wards have two councillors each.
Elections are held in three out of every four years, with the
exception of the Leigh Park Wards. Hampshire County Council
elections take place in the fourth year.
As a councillor you would be involved in complex decision
making, ensuring quality and value-for-money services. You would
vote on issues such as setting the level of Council Tax and
determining planning applications.
Councillors come from all walks of life; the borough currently
has councillors who are employed, self-employed and retired. You
must be at least 18 years of age, be a British, Commonwealth or
European Citizen and live or work in the borough. However, you do
not have to be identified with a political group or party, the
decision is entirely at your discretion.
When elected you will be representing all the people in your
ward who may come to you asking for your assistance on a variety of
matters. Groups and organisations may also request your help for
projects and schemes they are running.
FAQ’s
When and where do meetings take place?
Nearly all of the council’s meetings start at 5pm and take place
at the Civic Offices in Havant.
How much of my time will it take?
This will largely depend on your own ambitions. You would be
required to attend regular meetings of the committees and boards of
which you were a member. You would also be likely to have to deal
with queries at home.
You may also hold special responsibility such as chairing a
committee or board, or even being responsible for a portfolio such
as planning and development. This would of course increase the
amount of time you spend on council business.
Can I get time off work to be a Councillor?
You may be entitled to some time off under the Employment Rights
Act 1996. This is a matter best discussed with your employer before
you decide to stand for election.
What about day to day support?
The officers of Havant Borough Council are committed to help you
fulfil your duties as a councillor. There will always be someone
who is able to offer advice or support on any issue.
I want to stand for election, what do I do now?
The process for 2008 begins with the publication of the Notice
of Election on 27th March for all 14 wards in the borough. From the
date the notice is published you will be able to submit nomination
papers to formally register your intention to stand for
election.
Nomination papers will be available from:
The Returning Officer
Electoral Services Office
Havant Borough Council
Civic Offices
Civic Centre Road
HAVANT
PO9 2AX
Email: elections.office@havant.gov.uk
If you would like any further information about becoming a
councillor please contact Lee Abraham, Democratic Services, on 023
9244 6230 or email: The Democratic
Services Team
To find
out more about your local councillors, what committees and boards
they attend and their allowances follow this link>>