The council normally has 49 Councillors, also known as Members, from 24 wards within the district.
Following the District Council Elections on 6 May 2021, the council consists of 23 Conservative, 15 Labour & Co-operative and 11 Liberal Democrat Members.
Councillors are elected to represent a particular ward for a four year term. In three out of a four year cycle an election is held for a third of the council seats. An election for Hertfordshire County Councillors is held in the fourth year of the cycle.
Duties of a councillor
Councillors are elected by the community to represent the interests of local people to ensure the Council fulfils its duties and takes collective decisions which form the policy of the Council. The Council reflects the views of the majority of members, and they:
- meet in various committees to discuss and agree major policies that determine how the services are run
- ensure the Council is delivering good services
- decide on priorities for the Council
- make decisions in some committees
- agree how much will be spent by the Council each year
- agree how much you pay in Council Tax
- help individuals in their wards
How councillors can help you
Councillors can help if you are dissatisfied with a Council service by advising or directing you to someone who can help sort out your problem and can sometimes progress the case on your behalf. They also have the opportunity to become involved in local issues and make a difference to the lives of their local community.
Councillor induction and training
A Councillors’ Learning and Development Protocol is in place and is supported by Member Champions.
Councillors are strongly encouraged to undertake training. An Induction Programme is provided for all new Councillors and other training is available throughout their term of office.
There are also other learning resources and guidance available to Councillors including through the Local Government Association. The LGA Councillors Guide is an online resource, designed as a quick reference guide to provide Councillors with the essential information.
Councillors Parental Leave
North Herts Council wants to make it as accessible as possible for a variety of people to become Councillors – that is why it adopted a Parental Leave Policy.
To find out more, click on the policy below.
Attachments