WATCH: Nominations for 'second chance' community councils now open
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The strath's 'missing' community councils have a chance to reform with today's invitation for candidates at the next round of interim elections.
Nominations are invited from people seeking election to the region's local watchdogs which did not form during the 2023 Community Council Elections and the ones that fell into abeyance.
This is now available on the council’s website.
There is also detailed information about the role community councils play and a short video.
"This is your chance to help represent the views of your community to The Highland Council and other public agencies" said a spokesperson this morning.
The community councils looking to form are: Balintore and Hilton, Ballachulish, Ballifeary, Bower, Carrbridge, Cawdor and West Nairnshire, Creich, Cromdale and Advie, Dalneigh and Columba, Dalwhinnie, Dornie and District, Dulnain Bridge, East Nairnshire, Glendale, Golspie, Grantown, Inver, Merkinch, Muir of Ord, Muirtown, Nairn West and Suburban, Nigg and Shandwick, Portree, Resolis, Sleat, Small Isles, Smithton, Stromeferry and Achmore, Sunart, Tain, and Waternish.
Community councils are voluntary organisations that act as a voice for their local area. They express views and concerns of local people within their area across a wide range of issues such as new buildings and roads to local services and facilities.
They also have legal duties: by law, The Highland Council must consult with community councils on planning and licensing applications in their area.
In some areas the watchdogs receive community benefit money from windfarm projects which they can reinvest in the community.
Others are involved in setting up community development companies which can lead on larger scale projects to improve the area.
Community councils also work to make positive changes in their local communities. Some have worked to improve patient transport, dental services and care services as well as looking at ways to improve their environment for the good of the community and visitors to the area.
The Notice of Election and Online Nomination Form to be completed for candidates wishing to serve their local community councils in the Highlands for the next four years is published on the council's website: www.highland.gov.uk/ccelections
Anyone considering putting themselves forward has until noon on Tuesday, January 30 to complete and return their application form.
The statements of persons nominated for each community council will be published on the council’s website by Wednesday, January 31.
A postal ballot will be held in instances where the number of nominations exceeds the maximum membership.
To help explain more about the important role community councils play, the council has created an online digital toolkit with lots of helpful information.
