Want a change? Stand in election

The local authority has now published the ‘Notice of Election’ for the borough, town and parish seats, which formally marks the start of the election process.

Anyone wanting to stand for election to any of the councils on May 7 has from now until noon next Thursday, April 9, to return their nomination papers.

Dacorum’s group manager for Democratic Services Jim Doyle said: “Standing as a local councillor is your opportunity to talk about issues that affect your community – and to get involved in doing something positive about them.

“It’s an important role and can be extrememly rewarding. As a councillor, representing the views of the residents you serve, you can have a real impact on the future of Dacorum, making decisions about how services are provided locally.”

To stand as a candidate for election, you do not need to be a member of a political party but must be over 18, on the electoral register, and have lived, worked or owned property in the area for at least the past 12 months.

Nomination papers can be collected from the Civic Centre on Marlowes in Hemel Hempstead, Monday to Thursdays from 9am to 5pm and Fridays from 9am to 4pm. Candidates must then book an appointment with the Elections Office in order to submit their nomination papers.

To contact Dacorum Borough Council’s Elections Office email [email protected] or call 01442 228000 and ask for electoral registration.

You can also find the Notices of Election and more information at www.dacorum.gov.uk/elections2015.

Voters must register to vote by April 20. Polling cards are being issued to homes now, notifying residents where to go to vote.