Does it matter if Ross-shire community councils fall by the wayside?
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WHAT's the point of standing for a community council?
The question has doubtless flitted across the minds of many a community stalwart who has given up their precious time to try and improve things for others where they live.
It'll be to the forefront too of anyone considering stepping up to the plate to help reactivate those community councils in Ross-shire which have fallen into abeyance. Several fall into that category now but could reform within weeks if enough people come forward ahead of a January 30 deadline.
They offer a chance to help represent the views of communities to Highland Council and other public agencies.
Given that the blame for so many things gets pinned on "the council", this might be seen as an incentive to do something about it.
Dingwall and Seaforth councillor Angela MacLean is amongst those who believes it does though she's under no illusions about the frustrations which exist within the system and the sense that these grassroots bodies could do more.
Cllr MacLean, whose ward takes in Muir of Ord, one of the areas currently without one, said: "Community councils are good for local democracy. They have a vital role to play in advocating for their communities.
"Many Highland councillors started as community councillors as they want to see positive changes to the communities they live in. With the Community Empowerment Act, more decisions should be taken as close as possible to the people they effect.
"One issue is getting the Highland Council to engage effectively with community councils. The other is financing them properly to be able to do anything, including engage with people, in the community. Renting venues can take up their whole grant."
There's no question that without them, a democratic deficit exists in a number of areas, regardless what you think about the power they have. Highland Councillors are supposed to attend as many of the community councils within their areas as they can meaning they will hear directly from the people they serve. There's a saying that the squeaky wheel gets the oil and there's little doubt that having the ear of someone in a position to effect change and advocate for a community is no bad thing.
"It is, to be honest, a hard task being a member of a community council and you will not please everyone, but to have tried your best is all you can do.The officials are not in an easy position as to work with impossible budgets is difficult. But to be treated with respect by both parties is the easiest way to build a rapport.Acceptance and understanding of decisions is hard to deal with, but all you can do is fight as hard as you can for what you believe is what the people want and try to discard your personal opinion." - Frances McGruer
A former Muir of Ord community councillor who has had 20 years to reflect on the difference grassroots involvement can make agrees and argues that creating a rapport is key. The confrontational approach perhaps sometimes has its place but relationships also need to be nurtured amidst an atmosphere of mutual respect.
Frances McGruer has not applied to be on the community council this time around and but has given years in advocating for the Muir of Ord area and getting involved in the organisation of highly valued local events and activities .
She said: "We held a meeting and I am quite confident with those who were involved previously and with some new faces Muir Community Council will reform. It is vitally important to have a relationship with Highland Council officials and elected members.To get anything positive for your community you need this. It may take some time but while you are in, conversation is still an option.
"It is, to be honest, a hard task being a member of a community council and you will not please everyone, but to have tried your best is all you can do.The officials are not in an easy position as to work with impossible budgets is difficult. But to be treated with respect by both parties is the easiest way to build a rapport.Acceptance and understanding of decisions is hard to deal with, but all you can do is fight as hard as you can for what you believe is what the people want and try to discard your personal opinion. You are there for your community."
Casting an eye back, she admits: "I have sometimes wondered with the archaic rules the community councils have in place if it is worth even having one. But I do believe they are the connection between Highland Council and communities and do serve a purpose. I also think the system requires updating, to give community councils a bit more scope, especially with development through grants."
John McHardy has served on Kiltearn Community Council for eight years. It is one of potentially 156 community councils within Highland.
Mr McHardy, who recently retired after a long and varied career, spent a large chunk of his working life serving on Highland Council, latterly playing a key role in the delivery of much-needed affordable housing. So he has a view from both sides of the fence when it comes to dealing with the next layer of local government.
He said: "Although not all communities are able, or indeed wish, to form a community council, I have found being a part of [one] a very rewarding experience.I have been a member of Kiltearn Community Council for eight years.
"Within Kiltearn, we are fortunate to hold a community fund derived from benefit monies awarded by electricity generators who operate within our area. Management of the fund allows the community council to assist local groups and individuals to undertake activities and deliver projects which benefit the area and assist in making it the vibrant community that it is.
"Being part of the community council has given me an opportunity to give something back to the community, working with like-minded people to manage the community fund and work on a range of projects including the much admired Christmas lights and hanging baskets. As a community council we hold a monthly public meeting, working through a pre-advertised agenda which includes time for issues to be raised and for community conversations to take place on issues of concern.This also allows the sharing of good news and of upcoming events."
In a wider message to the community, he said: "We are a conduit to bring things to the Highland Council so please continue to raise ideas/concerns."
What's the January 30 deadline all about and how do I get involved?
Over time, community councils in different areas will fall into abeyance when not enough people show an interest in sitting on them.
With more people citing competing demands on their limited free time, it can be difficult to maintain a group that meets monthly although it's fair to say that some of the most effective community councils have some exceedingly busy but well-organised people sitting on them. When it comes to serving a community, there's a role for everyone. All that's needed is commitment, a desire to improve things locally and a willingness to accept it's not always going to happen overnight. Oodles of patience and a sense of humour does no harm either.
Highland Council is now reminding anyone considering joining their local community council that there is still time to submit their nomination for several areas. In Ross-shire, these include Balintore and Hilton;Muir of Ord; Nigg and Shandwick; Resolis and Tain.
Those wishing to stand as a candidate must be 16 years of age, be a resident within the community council boundary and must be a registered voter.
Contact the electoral registration office on 0800 393783 or email ero@highland.gov.uk to check if you are a registered voter.
To stand as candidate, all you need do is self-nominate yourself by completing and submitting the online nomination form by noon on Tuesday, January 30.
Anyone with issues accessing the online nomination form or require it in another format that is more accessible should contact 01349 886657 or email ccelection@highland.gov.uk and assistance will be provided.
Guidance notes to assist anyone who is interested in completing the online form are available on the council’s website as it the nomination form www.highland.gov.uk/ccelections
For full details on the role of a community council, visit www.highland.gov.uk/ccelections
Should the number of candidates validly nominated exceed the total maximum permitted membership as specified for the community council area, an election will be held by post. Each elector shall be entitled to vote for a number of candidates up to and including the number of vacancies on the community council.
