The 2011 Local Elections

The local elections in Tenterden were held on Thursday 5 May 2011. The next local elections will be in 2015.

Some Excuses for not joining the Town Council 

“I’m too young”. If you are eighteen you’re old enough.
“What’s the point of joining and just talking shop?, they don’t do anything”. Have you ever been to a meeting? Basing your judgement on watching the Vicar Of Dibley is definitely not valid.
“I’m too busy, and couldn’t commit to attending every single meeting”. Meetings are rarely more frequent than two evenings a month, and missing one occasionally is acceptable. Most meetings only take a couple of hours.
“I’m concentrating on finding a job or furthering my career”. Being a local councillor is a definite plus point, add it to your CV to show you can make decisions, work in a team, are community minded and proactive. Prospective
employers will be impressed.
“I haven’t lived here very long and don’t know the area well”. If you have lived or worked in the parish for a year, you are eligible. Your views as an ‘incomer’ would be welcomed, as you may see things more objectively.
“Our town council is full of old fogeys”. Join and change it then.
“I’d look like a fool because I won’t know what’s going on”. You will be eased in gently; there is help, advice and more formal training available. The clerk is the legal officer to the council and she will explain all the rules.
“I’m too lazy, and not interested in my community”. An excellent reason for not joining.
“I prefer to let others do the work, and then criticise from the sidelines afterwards”. Another valid reason for not joining, but do remember that expounding your views elsewhere, rather than the council chamber, will not change a thing in your town.