| Date -07 Feb 2007 | Return to previous page |
Moray Council is launching a campaign to attract more people to stand as candidates in the forthcoming local elections.
The authority could lose as many as 12 experienced members from its full chamber of 26 councillors under the government’s severance scheme.
The vacancies will make way for new representatives to stand in the May 3 elections.
This is the first such campaign run by a Scottish authority, and comprises period-style ‘wanted’ posters, information booklets and local advertising.
Those interested in becoming councillors will receive full training, a £15k salary and expenses package once elected, but their greater reward will be that they are providing a vital service to local democracy and their constituents.
Chief Executive for Moray Council and Moray’s Returning Officer for elections, Alastair Keddie, said the role of councillor comes with big responsibilities.
"Members of the council often have to decide on complex issues affecting the whole of the area, and are responsible for administering the pounds 173 million budget " he said.
"Many of these decisions have far-reaching consequences, not least for local taxpayers, the services they are provided with and the county’s environment.
"But I know from councillors past and present that there is great personal satisfaction from their service to the community, and that is what I hope will inspire people to stand for election."
To be eligible, would-be councillors have to fulfil a number of criteria.
People who have been bankrupt, sequestrated or have been sentenced to more than three months in prison cannot stand for election.
Additionally, there has to be a minimum of 12 months residential connection with the area, such as a property owner, local employee, or registered on the Electoral Register.
But the significant change is in the age of prospective candidates.
Moira Patrick, Moray Council’s Depute Returning Officer, said: "The minimum age of candidates has been dropped from 21 to 18 years old on the day of polling," she said.
"That means that we could have 17 year olds on the campaign trail.
"To be able to stand they will need to submit their witnessed nomination papers by the set day. Nomination packs will be available following the official notice of the election which is likely to be late March and candidates have just over 2 weeks in which to lodge their nomination following that date.
"With all these changes, the Single Transferable Vote and the electronic counting system, this election will be history in the making.
"We hope this campaign will encourage people to stand for election."