There is a vacancy

ELECTION OR CO-OPTION?

One of our town's Councillors has resigned.

Councillor Mike Kean, who was last year's Mayor, has sadly resigned his position. Mike was one of those local residents who had earned respect by being fully committed to the town and he will be missed. Always approachable, always willing to listen, Mike put a great deal into the role and Whitchurch owes him a lot.

But what happens now? Who will take the empty seat?

Will there be an election?
There could now be an election, but only if the residents call for one. If not the existing town Councillors will co-opt someone.
I am not a keen supporter of co-option, but that will happen if an election is not requested – I believe it is far better to have an election where all residents in the town can have a chance to select who represents them.
All it needs is for TEN electors to request one.

An advantage of co-option is a much reduced cost – they are costly, although elections are paid for by the Borough. A disadvantage is that local residents have much less say as the choice is made by the present Councillors.

This is an opportunity for someone who cares about our town, its people, and its future to join the table, and to take an active part in helping make Whitchurch a better place for us all.

But back to the election.
The first stage has started on Friday 25th September with the issue of the Casual Vacancy Notice. This calls for those TEN local residents to request an election.
Whilst the notice calls for the requests to be made 'in writing' this can also be done through email.
Just send a quick email or note to say you would like at election with your name and address to:

EMAIL:
electoral.services@basingstoke.gov.uk
or
LETTER:
The Returning Officer
Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council
Civic Offices
London Road
Basingstoke
Hampshire
RG21 4AH

If ten people request an election then an official Notice will go out requesting nominations.