Become A Councillor
Are you someone who wants to improve the area in which you live? Are you willing to fight for more leisure facilities, better roads, cheaper car parking, greater protection for green open spaces and lower Council Tax? If so, you are an ideal candidate to become a Conservative Councillor.
As a Conservative Councillor you can make a real difference. You will be responsible for making decisions that directly affect the local area as well as having a privileged opportunity to help improve your community. Independent research shows that Conservative run councils deliver the best value for money, the cleanest streets, the highest recycling rates and the best “quality of life” ratings.
Colchester Conservative Association is looking to recruit talented committed individuals to stand as Conservative Candidates at the Colchester Borough Elections in 2011 and beyond. The term of office is 4 years, and elections are held 3 out of every 4 years. Why don’t you stand and play a vital role in shaping the future of our area?
Do I have the time?
It is possible to spend much of your time on council work but the vast majority of Councillors have full time jobs, families and hobbies. Unless you take on responsibility as a Cabinet Member or a Chairman or Vice-Chairman of a committee, your work at the Town Hall will probably involve a two or three meetings a month (although this depends on the number of committees/panels you serve on).
In addition to this, you will have “ward casework” and be expected to support the Party’s campaign activity in the constituency/council area. You will soon discover, however, that the more involved you are, the more enjoyable and rewarding the work becomes!
How much do I need to know?
Don’t underestimate your own abilities. Each councillor will have something to offer the council. The main qualifications are a genuine concern for the community and a willingness to work hard. Knowledge and experience will soon follow. Remember, you will not be on your own. You will be part of a team and can talk to any of our existing councillors.
Who may become a councillor?
To be eligible you must be:
A British subject or a citizen of the Irish Republic or EU and resident in the UK.
At least 18 years old on the day you are nominated.
Either on the electoral register for the council area in which you are seeking
election, or have lived or worked in that council area for at least the last 12 months.
A member of the Conservative Party.
What should I do if I am interested in standing for Council?
If you or someone you know is interested in standing as a Conservative Councillor, please e-mail: colchesterconservatives@aspects.net. You can also talk to a sitting councillor to learn more about the work and what is involved.
