All Parish and Town Councils throughout England are required by law to hold an Annual Parish Meeting, which must take place between 1st March and the 1st June (inclusive) and not before 6.00 pm (Local Government Act 1972 SCHEDULE 12 Part III).
The meeting acts as an annual democratic point of communication enabling the Parish Council to explain what it has been doing over the last year and providing an opportunity for the electors to have their say on anything they consider is important to the people of the Parish.
Who can attend the meeting?
The Annual Parish Meeting is a meeting of all the local government electors for the Parish, which the public are entitled to attend and participate in.
Will I be able to ask questions and make suggestions?
Yes, any registered elector may ask questions of the Council, which will usually be answered by the Chair, the Clerk to the Council, or a designated Councillor. An elector may also make suggestions and comment on anything relevant to the residents of Steep.
Who will chair the meeting?
The Chair of the Parish Council will chair the meeting or in his/her absence the Vice Chair.
Will Parish Councillors be there?
Yes, however, the purpose of the meeting is to enable the ordinary electors to have their say. Councillors will listen with interest and, as electors themselves, also have the opportunity to raise questions and make comments if they wish.
Will notes be taken of the meeting?
Yes, a written record of the meeting will be taken and presented at the next Annual Parish Meeting for approval.
How long will the meeting last?
As long as need be within reason. It will usually depend on the level of participation.