Doorstep issues... The Council's role?

What does a council do?

Bob says: "It's quite surprising the number of residents who know there is a council but don't know what it's actual purpose is."

Local councils are a body of people, elected by local residents to conduct the business of the council. District councils are responsible for a range of services, including: environmental services, town planning, housing, benefits, education, libraries, transport, and others.

The County council provides another range of services on top of those looked after by parish and district councils, they cover a larger geographical area and provide services such as schools, social services, and some public transport.

Ken explains: "In Little Paxton we have an excellent Parish Council. It's run by a small dedicated number of volunteers who get together to decide on things which are necessary for the benefit of all who reside within the village. The St Neots Town Council is a similar body with similar responsibilities."

Bob takes up the matter. "When I first became a town councillor it was more informal than it is now, we got just as much done, in fact I think we got more done, because it was all for the good of the town and the people living here, we certainly didn't argue over politics, we got the job done! We used to have a couple of ladies that brought flasks of tea, one even had her knitting with her. We would sit and discuss the issues which needed to be sorted and make decisions. I don't think she ever dropped a stitch!"

At County level Council tax also pays for essential services such as street lighting & highway maintenance. It also pays for the nicer things which benefit the community. 

Councillors don't work for the council and are not paid a salary for their role. However, district and county councillors usually receive expenses to cover the cost of attending meetings and other duties - these are referred to as 'Allowances'. There has been considerable debate about the cost to residents regarding councillors allowances - following the Saturday Essay - published this week in the 'Daily Mail'. Allowances claimed by Councillors are a matter of public record and they make very interesting reading!

Bob says: "The County role can be demanding, many local councillors have their council duties on top of work and family commitments."

Ken agrees: "Being an effective councillor requires both commitment and hard work but it can be really rewarding, especially when an issue has been resolved or you have contributed to change something for the good."

All images and text © cg-photography
Promoted by Carol Gamby on behalf of Ken Churchill and Bob Farrer all of 83 Huntingdon Street, St Neots, Cambridgeshire, PE19 1DU