Honiton: Here's everything you need to know about Thursday's election

By Kate Baxter

9th Mar 2022 | Local News

On Thursday March 10, six candidates will compete for four spaces on Honiton's Town Council, St. Michael's Ward.

The four positions are available after a series of resignations which took place earlier this year.

There will be no election in St Paul's Ward because only three people stood for four positions. Joseph Furneaux-Gotch, Caroline Kolek and Deborah Hulin were therefore selected without the need for an election.

[H2] What is a town councillor? [H2]

A town councillor works as an advocate for all residents, irrespective of who voted for them.

The role of a town councillor is to represent the people within a certain area, called a ward. They act as a bridge between residents and the council.

Councillors are community leaders, who work with local organisations, voluntary groups and the private sector to develop a vision for a local area, contributing to council policy.

A statement on Honiton town council's website said: "The role of Town Councillor is as important as ever. The Town Council makes decisions that affect everyone in Honiton and the Town's economy, environment and community.

"Voters have the opportunity to be represented on the Town Council by Councillors for whom you have voted. By voting you are expressing your hard-won democratic right to vote.

"Democracy is best served by a good turnout of people voting. Councillors are an essential link to and work closely with the community, representing people at the Council."

[H2] What is the town council's budget and what is it spent on? [H2]

Honiton Town Council's budget for the current financial year is £301,742. The vast majority of this comes from the precept, which is £296,742.

A small amount comes from the allotments (£160) and Charter Day fundraising (£125) and the Community Infrastructure Levy.

The precept is given to the town council by Devon County Council and it is funded by council tax payments.

The budget is spent on a wide range of things, including staffing, administration, maintaining premises and environmental services. Services and events, such as Hot Pennies and Charter Day, also come out of this budget.

In addition, the council provides grants to various charitable groups and organisations within Honiton.

For example, in the 2021-2022 financial year grants were given to Honiton Parent and Toddler Group and Honiton Youth Club, TRIP Community Transport Association, Honiton Carers Support Group and Honiton Karate Club.

In January 2022, the council voted to increase the budget for 2022/2023 to £437,375.

[H2] When and where are this week's elections? [H2]

Residents in St. Michael's ward will be able to vote between 7am and 10pm on Thursday 10 March.

The polling stations will be at The Heathfield Inn and Honiton Library.

The results will be announced at Blackdown House, Honiton.

[H2] Who is standing in Thursday's election? [H2]

There are six candidates standing in Thursday's election.