Have you ever thought of joining the Parish Council?

Following the resignation of Cllr Joanna Coleman, and an election not being requested by electors, Brightling Parish Council is looking to co-opt a new member.

The role is varied, and no previous experience of local government is required. We meet 6-8 times a year on a Wednesday evening at 7.30pm in the Village Hall.  The duties are not too onerous and would suit someone who likes to be involved in their community and takes an interest in a range of local matters from the state of the roads, to local planning issues, environmental concerns or local projects.

Applications, consisting of a brief introduction and summary of your suitability to the role, as well as confirmation that you meet the eligibility criteria, should be made by midday on Thursday 6th March 2025. The Council will then look to confirm the successful candidate via co-option at the next Parish Council meeting on Wednesday 12th March 2025.

A candidate must:

1. Be at least 18 years old on the day of nomination.
2. Be a British citizen, an Irish citizen, or a qualifying Commonwealth citizen
3. Meet at least one of the following criteria:
   • Be registered as a local government elector for the parish.
   • Have lived in the parish (or within 3 miles of it) for the whole 12 months before the election.
   • Have worked in the parish (as the main place of work) for the whole 12 months before the election.
   • Have occupied land or other premises in the parish (as an owner or tenant) for the whole 12 months before the election.

Disqualifications

A person cannot be a parish councillor if they:

• Are bankrupt and have not been discharged.
• Have been convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to at least three months in prison (without suspension) in the last five years.
• Have been disqualified under electoral offences laws (e.g., for corrupt or illegal practices).
• Work for the parish council they want to be elected to (except as a separate role like a clerk to another council).

If you are interested in finding out more, or would like to enquire about the application process, please contact Sam Dugan, Clerk to the Council, by email on clerk@brightling-pc.gov.uk.