Meet your friendly West Hayling Councillors, Julie Richardson and Brenda Linger both are armed with a passion for their sunny (sometimes) island as local councillors we love the sense of community and improve the daily lives of residents.
We feel it is important for residents to understand the role of their local councillor so that they can better communicate their needs and concerns. At its very core, the role is about representing people, to act on their behalf in an official capacity and contribute to making decisions that benefit the local area and community
Summary of the Councillor role:
Responsibilities:
- Engaging with their constituents.
- Address local issues.
- Take decisions that benefit their community.
- Attending council meetings
- Committee work
Description of the Councillor role: (How we do our work)
Policy Making: Councillors are involved in shaping local policies and strategies. They work with other councillors and council officers to develop plans for areas such as housing, transportation, education, social services, environmental issues, and more.
Decision Making: Councillors participate in council meetings where they vote on various issues, proposals, and budgets that affect the borough. They are responsible for making informed decisions that align with the best interests of their constituents and the wider community.
Scrutiny and Oversight: Councillors play a crucial role in scrutinizing the actions of the local authority. They review council decisions, policies, and services to ensure they are effective, efficient, and accountable.
Community Engagement: This is a vital responsibility of a borough councillor, attending public events, resident’s meetings, and surgeries to interact with residents, understand their needs, and provide support and guidance.
Supporting Local Initiatives: Councillors aim to support local initiatives, community projects, and events that improve the borough and enhance the well-being of its residents.
Advocacy: Borough councillors may advocate for specific issues or causes that they are passionate about. They work with local organisations, businesses, and residents to promote positive change and address community concerns.
Constituent Services: Councillors provide assistance and guidance to individual constituents who seek help with issues related to council services, local facilities, or government policies.
Committee Work: Councillors serve on various council committees, where they specialise in specific areas of interest or expertise.
Community Planning: local community planning is key, ensuring that the borough’s future development and growth are in line with the needs and wishes of the residents whilst meeting the legal requirements of Government.
However, being a councillor is not all meetings and paperwork. One of the advantages of living on Hayling Island is being part of a strong community. There are interest groups to suit all ages. There are numerous voluntary groups who provide important services to the community, from luncheon clubs for the elderly, youth clubs, veteran support groups, horticulture, choirs, and boxing, to name but a few.
Being a councillor isn’t all plain sailing. Budget constraints and balancing different interests can make life in politics challenging We are constantly learning and know that the key to any success is listening, understanding, compromise, and putting the needs of the island’s community first.
On a final note, if you are a resident, and you want to discuss your concerns, ideas, projects or just want to meet us, please make contact, we welcome the opportunity.
We aim to make Hayling Island a great place to live!!
Email:
Brenda.linger@havant.gov.uk
Julie.richardson@havant.gov.uk
Hayling Matters - by Brenda Linger & Julie Richardson 