Residents in five Aberdeen communities are today (31st August) being invited to stand and represent their communities in forthcoming Community Council elections.
Elections will take place on 27th October and representatives are being sought for the following Community Councils:
- Castlehill and Pittodrie
- Ferryhill and Ruthrieston
- Rosehill and Stockethill
- Seaton and Linksfield
- Torry
Community Councils act as a voice for their local area and express the views of local people on issues that are most important to them. They are also a statutory consultee on all planning applications and liquor licensing applications.
Anyone considering standing for election need not have any special skills or experience but should have a keen interest in their local community and be public spirited.
Candidates must be at least 16 years old and named on the current electoral register for the community council area in which they reside.
The closing date for nominations is Thursday 29th September at 4pm, with the notice of polling being on Monday 10th October.
Polling day will run between 8am and 8pm on Thursday 27th October.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “As a former community councillor myself, I know just how important Community Councils can be.
“Community Councils have a key part to play in making sure the views of the communities they represent are heard by the City Council and others.”
Community councils usually meet once a month, to discuss concerns in their local area and through public engagement should encourage feedback and involvement from everyone in the local community.
This could include consultations, public meetings and actively promoting the work of the Community Council.
Community Councils were established under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 and the majority comprises of 12 members, dependent on the size of the population for that location, with each community councillor elected to serve until the next elections in 2024.
Those interested in standing as a Community Councillor and would like more information should contact Karen Finch, Community Council Liaison Officer, Aberdeen City Council, via email communitycouncils@aberdeencity.gov.uk or telephone 01224 522723. You can also visit our website.