Nominations open for community council elections
If you are looking to make a difference in your local area, you can now put yourself forward for election to one of East Lothian’s community councils.
Nominations for community councillors across the county opened on Monday, 1 September.
Anyone who is at least 16 years of age and is interested in getting involved has until Thursday 18 September to lodge nomination papers.
Depending on the number of nominations received for the places available per community council, elections will be held on Thursday, 9 October. Residents living in the corresponding community council area will be able to vote.
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 Connected Communities Manager for their area, providing a first point of contact on any local issues or requests for advice on groups’ operational matters.
Passionate about communities
Councillor Colin McGinn, our Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing, said:
“Across East Lothian, we are fortunate to have many volunteers who do such fantastic work in helping our towns and villages to be fantastic places to live. If you are passionate about the place you live and want to play a part in making it even better, I’d encourage you to consider putting yourself forward. It can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.”