Co-option Process

Published: 17 January 2022

In light of comments raised by a member of the public at the January meeting, the Parish Council would like to clarify historic and recent electoral matters. If local residents have any further queries please contact the Clerk direct or speak to an existing Parish Councillor.

Beer Parish Council held elections in 2015 and 2019. On both occasions, there were insufficient candidates to prompt a “contested” election so those nominated were elected “uncontested” but nonetheless held the status of “elected members of the council”. The remaining vacancies were filled by co-option.

Beer Parish Council received a resignation in October 21 and EDDC (as the Principal Authority) was informed of this casual vacancy. The established procedure then ensued whereby public notice was given of the vacancy and the local electorate had 14 days in which 10 persons could contact EDDC to request a by-election. EDDC notified BPC that a by-election was not requested and co-option took place for this vacancy at the Parish Council meeting on 12 January 22. There were FOUR applicants and a ballot took place whereby those cllrs present at the meeting were able to vote for ONE of the FOUR applicants. James Green received the majority of votes and was duly elected.

Beer Parish Council received three resignations in November 21 and EDDC was informed of the casual vacancies. The established procedure then ensued whereby public notice was given of the vacancies and the local electorate had 14 days in which 10 persons could contact EDDC to request a by-election. There was a delay hearing from EDDC regarding the need for a by-election – partly due to the Christmas break and partly due to covid related absence of EDDC electoral services staff. BPC finally heard that there was no need for a by-election and the remaining three casual vacancies were co-opted at the Feb 22 meeting. Alex Adkin, Adam Brewer and Sean Greig were duly elected.