Community councils could go hi-tech with Highland grumbles
Gadgets are to be given to community leaders so they can instantly report problems like potholes or vandalism with Highland Council.
GPS location recording and photographic devices will be used by two community councils in a three-month trial starting in January.
Both lie in the ward of council leader Drew Hendry who predicted the trial could ease frustration amongst residents who want local problems fixed quickly.
He said it would give more "direct power" to communities at no extra cost and could be extended to other parts of the region.
The scheme will see Stratherrick and Foyers and Strathglass community councils equipped with the technology which will let them to record, and log, issues they want tackled like pothole-ridden surfaces or drainage problems.
The GPS devices, will be loaned by the council, will allow them to pinpoint the location providing a grid reference on a map.
Council staff will draw up a "live" community action plan, which will be regularly updated through the pilot as the office bearers use the devices.
A target completion date for each of the entries on the list will be provided.
Councillor Hendry said it would help communities and staff who often have to hunt for the defects because the information provided via phone or e-mail can be unclear.
"I think everybody is frustrated that sometimes they don’t know when things are getting done, although often there are good reasons for it like seasonal weather," he said.
"Communities will, however, know when they can expect issues to be tackled. Sometimes people give us really good information but sometimes it is really vague. If we can get the exact positions it is to the benefit of the council for better planning of repairs and maintenance and the reduction of duplication, like sending a van out to the same area a number of times to do similar work.
"The aim is to give more power back to the community councils and be more efficient, if we save money we can do more."
The Aird and Loch Ness councillor said a range of issues like tourism and social care could also be flagged up, while engineering or expensive projects could be assessed in the long-term.
Councillor Hendry stressed it was a local initiative but other areas could get involved.
"It would be up to other councillors if they wanted to try in their area," he added. "The equipment will be available on a limited basis."
