Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Community Councils?

Community Councils were first established in law in 1974 and reinforced in 1994. They are the most local community-based tier of elected representation.

What is their purpose?

Their role is to ascertain in an active way the views of their communities in terms of local issues, needs and wishes and to convey those views to Falkirk Council. Community Councils should always act in a non-political and non-sectarian manner.

How do they convey the communities views to the Council?

Community councils are consulted on planning and licensing applications affecting their area. They are also sent a wide range of consultative documents from the Council and other bodies. They are represented on the core groups of Area Forums and are involved in the community planning process. They hold their meetings in public to hear and discuss the views of the community and call special meetings in order to ascertain the views of their community on major issues. They may also take an active role in community events and heritage preservation.

How many Community Councils are there?

Out of a possible 23, there are 20 in operation. A complete list of operational Community Councils can be viewed here|.

How are the community councils made up?

The majority are elected (either opposed or unopposed) with the balance (approximately one third) coming from nominees from local organisations. This is to try and ensure as wide a cross-section of community representatives as possible.

When are community council elections held?

Elections are held every four years. The next election is in September 2009.

How do you stand for community council election?

Nomination forms are available from all Council One Stop Shops, Libraries and the Election Office, Municipal Buildings, Falkirk, FK1 5RS (01324 506121). Candidates require to be registered voters in the community concerned and to have their nomination endorsed by a proposer, seconder and two assentors, all of whom must also be voters registered in that community.

How do the community council elections work?

If there are more candidates than places in any Community Council, an election by postal vote will be held. Candidates' statements (and photographs, if chosen) will be distributed with the ballot papers. Voters will be able to choose a number of candidates up to the number of elected members required.

 

If the number of candidates equals the number of places, Falkirk Council will declare the candidates duly elected and a Community Council will be formed.

 

If there are fewer candidates than places, Falkirk Council will require to exercise its discretion as to whether or not a Community Council is formed or the election is suspended to a later date.

What support will I receive as a new community councillor?

If you are appointed to a community council that was active at the time of the last election, you can count on the support of those Councillors who may have served for some time.

 

Training for office bearers is available from Falkirk Council, as is training on planning matters. Grants for setting up, administration and special projects are also available from the Council. The Council runs an Annual Community Council Conference in order to exchange views and opinions. The Council's network of One-Stop Shops may also be used as a local resource for Community Councils.

 

There is a National Association of Community Councils and there are proposals to form at local Federation of Community Councils.

Can I find out more?

Yes – by contacting the Election Office, Municipal Buildings, Falkirk, FK1 5RS (01324 506121 or email cclo@falkirk.gov.uk|).