Elections for the 42 Community Councils in Stirling, which take place every four years, will get underway on October 1, when nomination papers become available. Anyone over 16 can take part.
Community Councils are the most local tier of elected representation and perform a vital democratic function. They represent local people, act as a voice for their area and work with others to improve services.
Community Councils are involved in a wide range of activities and issues, including planning and licensing applications, and can support local initiatives through securing funding and passing on expertise.
Among a number of successful Community Council-driven projects in Stirling is Braehead Community Garden. The popular garden opened in 2015 after the local Community Council secured Scottish Government and Big Lottery grants for its completion.
Convener of the Community Planning and Regeneration Committee, Councillor Chris Kane – who himself was a Community Councillor before becoming an elected member at the local authority - said:
“Community Councils perform a vital role in local democracy, acting as a voice for communities and bringing people together to make their areas better places to live.
“Braehead Community Garden is an excellent example of how Community Councils can make a real difference.
“As a former Community Councillor, I was proud to be involved in this transformative initiative, which has promoted health and well-being, improved skills and brought residents and other community groups together.
“It was one of many rewarding experiences I had in the role, and I would encourage anyone with an interest in enhancing their community to stand for election.”
Vice Convener of the Community Planning and Regeneration Committee, Councillor Maureen Bennison said: “Braehead Community Garden is one of many excellent initiatives to be taken forward by Community Councils in Stirling.
“Stirling Council is committed to supporting Community Councils and recognise the benefits they bring to the Council and communities.
“It’s important that a wide range of citizens participate in Community Councils so different opinions and ideas are heard, and it would be brilliant if more young people got involved.”
Chair of Braehead Community Council, Wendy McLean, said: “I am fortunate to have been part of a caring and effective community council team.
“We have endeavoured to help with the concerns of the community whilst also working to bring about changes and improvements and it has been a very worthwhile year for our team.
“From my positive experience, I would urge anyone who is considering becoming a Community Councillor to come forward in the upcoming elections and work with others to improve their area.”
To stand as a Community Councillor, you must live in your chosen community council area and be named on the electoral register in the area.
Nomination forms will be available from Monday, October 1, 2018, from the Council Office at Old Viewforth and all libraries.
The deadline for nominations is Friday, October 19, 2018.
For further information, or to pre-register your interest and be sent a reminder email, contact us via email or 01786 233076.
Please note that some Community Council boundaries have changed following the Review of Community Councils.
Pictured: from left to right, Aileen Hall, treasurer of Braehead Community Council; Councillor Chris Kane, Convener of the Community Planning and Regeneration Committee; Wendy McLean, Chair of Braehead Community Council, and Sharon McGrouther, Community Link Officer at Stirling Council.