Marple Website Community Calendar
Archive => Archived Boards => Local Elections and Council Matters => Topic started by: admin on November 28, 2015, 07:50:48 AM
-
Long serving Councillors Alexander and Candler are retiring from their posts in 2016 and we will definitely have two new local councillors after the May 2016 elections.
So who are the candidates for the two places up for grabs next May?
We have one candidate for Marple North that I'm aware of and that's Conservative @JohnBates who is registered on the forum.
If you know any of the other candidates for Marple North or Marple South please let us know so that their details can be promoted too.
If you're a candidate, then register on the forum and tell us all about yourself too.
-
So we know that John Bates is the Conservative candidate for Marple North.
I've moved @JohnBates' posts and replies to a separate thread here:
http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6619.0
So who are the other candidates, does anyone know? It would be good to give everyone the same opportunity to tell us about themeselves.
-
Simonesaffron, you didnt ask for my thoughts but thought I would offer them anyway. Since my election I have been campaigning for better maintenance of our parks and greenspaces. My thoughts and campaigns can be found on my website www.marplesouth.yourcllr.com or www.middlewoodway.co.uk or can be viewed on the Council Webcast of the Health & Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee from Sept here - http://www.stockport.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_interactive/187345 The relevant portion is from 1hr 50 mins in.
Essentially, cuts to parks and greenspaces now are a false economy with the resultant inactivity costing the NHS more money in 5-10 years.
-
Apologies Councillor,
It wasn't a deliberate omission, I can assure you, I was just concentrating on the two candidates.
Whether in agreement or otherwise always pleased to have your thoughts. Thoughts and words from Councillors are always welcome as far as I'm concerned. It's the Councillors that DON'T seem to have any, that are a worry. What really is the point of a 'quiet councillor?
As far as this subject is concerned we are seemingly in agreement.
-
I don't think anything you think you've done has been taken any notice of at all. Indeed both you and you colleague from North Marple appear to have decided to play no positive part in the working of the Council at all.
-
Essentially, cuts to parks and greenspaces now are a false economy with the resultant inactivity costing the NHS more money in 5-10 years.
A very good point - well said!
-
I don't think anything you think you've done has been taken any notice of at all. Indeed both you and you colleague from North Marple appear to have decided to play no positive part in the working of the Council at all.
Wheels, could you clarify who you are talking to here?
-
Question. The public realm deteriorates before our eyes; parking, parks, drains et al. It has all been mentioned before. It has all happened on the Lib Dem watch, over the last few years. Councillor Abell says its because there is less money to go around, I accept that this is true. However one shouldn't guarantee the other, nor did he say this as part of his election campaign. He only mentioned it when he was safely in office.
Whilst we are discussing it, what do you say John Bates?
I agree that there appears to be a number of problems with the public realm. Some may be due to reduced money in council budgets, but some appears to be due to work not being done as per contracts. Therefore we need to make sure work is being done as specified, and staffing is as per contract.
I am also in total agreement with @CllrKennyBlair that reduced Greenspace spending seems totally at odds with the councils Health and Wellbeing policy, (and future NHS costs) and perhaps the relevant executive councillors responsible need to talk to each other!
-
Seems we may have an Independent Candidate standing, see photo of signs that have been up a few days now. Kevin Dowling was LibDem councillor for Marple South, however it is not yet clear if he is standing for Marple South or Marple North where he lives.
[attachment deleted by admin]
-
I haven't had this first hand but I was in the company of somebody very close to Kevin over the week-end and my understanding is that he is planning to stand in Marple North.
Makes sense, he lives in Marple North, his business is in Marple North and the poster he has put up is in Marple North.
-
What is the difference between Marple Independents and the Lib Dems if ex candidates are standing?
-
I suppose the only person that knows the answer to that particular question at least in this example is Kevin Dowling.
Maybe an explanation is forthcoming.
-
Anyone know who all the candidates are for Marple South? I have seen the Conservative candidate but not heard from any others. Hopefully we should have full list soon?
-
Nominations close at 4pm today. The returning officer will then publish a list of those standing.
http://www.stockport.gov.uk/services/councildemocracy/elections/localelection/?view=Standard
Not long to wait.
Link is there to register to vote if you have not done so yet.
-
Nominated candidates for Marple North are as attached
[attachment deleted by admin]
-
Nominated Candidates for Marple South
[attachment deleted by admin]
-
That's great, thanks John.
-
Diverse range of people ranging from age 18.
-
Yes it should be an interesting election in both Marples North and South.
This is a local election, one of the few times there isn't another election going on at the same time.
It'll be interesting to see what extra each of the candidates brings to this local contest.
-
I think one major problem with this election is that it isn't really a local election at all. Both Marple North and Marple South are absurdly large wards which make it very difficult if not impossible to people to really know the candidates. In a real local election, there would be far, far fewer electors per ward and the ward would be small enough so that the candidates could be know personally by all the voters. When you look at the map, or see where the posters are for Marple South for example, it's clear it covers areas which are not really Marple at all and have different problems and needs from areas at the opposite end of the ward. Perhaps dividing the ward into three single member wards would help. Maybe we even need more councillors, so wards can be sufficiently local that the views of local communities can be better represented.
-
Seems we may have an Independent Candidate standing, see photo of signs that have been up a few days now. Kevin Dowling was LibDem councillor for Marple South, however it is not yet clear if he is standing for Marple South or Marple North where he lives.
how on earth did they get this poster up there?
[attachment deleted by admin]
-
how on earth did they get this poster up there?
I don't know, salemoorgirl he probably had a long ladder. the location of the poster you have posted is obviously a well known bar in Town Street, Marple Bridge. Anyway come on Kevin, we've seen the posters (very eye catching they are too) and we've seen your name on the candidate's list. I may be wrong, but I don't think that we've had an independent candidate stand in Marple before. A friend of mine who is nearly 70 yrs old and has lived here all his life, says he can't recall one.
It's all very intriguing which makes a change for a local election and I for one will certainly consider voting for you but perhaps by now Kevin we're due a few words.
-
..... I may be wrong, but I don't think that we've had an independent candidate stand in Marple before. A friend of mine who is nearly 70 yrs old and has lived here all his life, says he can't recall one.
About 15 years ago Barry Minshall (sp?) stood as an independent candidate. Obviously he didn't get in.
-
About 15 years ago Barry Minshall (sp?) stood as an independent candidate. Obviously he didn't get in.
Thanks Harry, interesting piece of information, can you recall, was it North or South?
-
I don't know, salemoorgirl he probably had a long ladder. the location of the poster you have posted is obviously a well known bar in Town Street, Marple Bridge. Anyway come on Kevin, we've seen the posters (very eye catching they are too) and we've seen your name on the candidate's list. I may be wrong, but I don't think that we've had an independent candidate stand in Marple before. A friend of mine who is nearly 70 yrs old and has lived here all his life, says he can't recall one.
It's all very intriguing which makes a change for a local election and I for one will certainly consider voting for you but perhaps by now Kevin we're due a few words.
A reasonable request Simone, watch this space.
-
Thanks Harry, interesting piece of information, can you recall, was it North or South?
It would have been Marple North. My ward, and I know Barry, hence the memory.
-
Thanks again Harry.
-
Nominated candidates for Marple North are as attached
I've heard on the grapevine that Marple North UKIP Candidate Ray Jones did not complete his "Consent to Nominate" form in time and will not be able to take part in the election.
Does anyone else know if this is correct?
-
I've heard on the grapevine that Marple North UKIP Candidate Ray Jones did not complete his "Consent to Nominate" form in time and will not be able to take part in the election.
Does anyone else know if this is correct?
That is very interesting admin, I heard the same thing. So all the UKIP voters out there in Marple North you have no candidate.
-
I've heard on the grapevine that Marple North UKIP Candidate Ray Jones did not complete his "Consent to Nominate" form in time and will not be able to take part in the election.
Does anyone else know if this is correct?
He still appears on list of nominated candidates on council website at present.
-
Yes, there seems to be a little confusion here.
As John says the candidate is validated on the council website, so he is correct. Yet on the other hand I have (I'm looking at it as I write this ) a paper copy of "statement of persons nominated," dated Friday 8 April, which is one day after the nominations were closed. In the column marked, " Reason why no longer nominated," it clearly states against the UKIP candidate, " No Consent to Nomination" So in that sense admin is right.
My agent has just phoned the council for clarification and the person she spoke to was 'unsure.' The person who presumably is 'sure,' is not in until this afternoon. We will try again later in the day.
So it's a bit of a palaver. In addition to this all candidates should have received the form I refer to in Monday's post and obviously John hasn't.
So we haven't even started yet and we could be forgiven for saying...what a way to run an election.
-
Yes, there seems to be a little confusion here.
As John says the candidate is validated on the council website, so he is correct. Yet on the other hand I have (I'm looking at it as I write this ) a paper copy of "statement of persons nominated," dated Friday 8 April, which is one day after the nominations were closed. In the column marked, " Reason why no longer nominated," it clearly states against the UKIP candidate, " No Consent to Nomination" So in that sense admin is right.
My agent has just phoned the council for clarification and the person she spoke to was 'unsure.' The person who presumably is 'sure,' is not in until this afternoon. We will try again later in the day.
So it's a bit of a palaver. In addition to this all candidates should have received the form I refer to in Monday's post and obviously John hasn't.
So we haven't even started yet and we could be forgiven for saying...what a way to run an election.
I do have that paperwork, but seemed logical to assume council website would have most up to date info. We wait to see ......
-
I do have that paperwork, but seemed logical to assume council website would have most up to date info. We wait to see ......
I agree the website should be the most current. However as I said the form referred to was dated 8 April which was after the nominations had closed. So you have either got your paperwork in complete and timely or you haven't. As you say ....'we wait to see.'
-
The Elections office at the council have confirmed the UKIP candidate has been correctly nominated. The form has been seen and checked in addition.
-
Thanks for resolving that for us John.
OK, so we have 3 candidates for Marple North signed up to the forum and we know a little about each of them.
@JohnBates Conservative http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6619.0 (http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6619.0)
@Malcolm Allan LibDem http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6650.0 (http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6650.0)
@Kevin Dowling Independent: http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6817.0 (http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6817.0)
Where are you Ray Jones (UKIP), David Rowbottom (Labour) and Trevor Smith (Green Party)?
For Marple South we only have one candidate signed up:
@TomDowseMarpleSouth Conservative: http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6692.0 (http://www.marple-uk.com/smf/index.php?topic=6692.0)
So come on Grahame Bradbury (UKIP), Colin Macalister (LibDem) Graham Reid (Green Party) and Sheila Townsend (Labour), come and say hello!
-
How do we find out more about the candidates not on here? Especially for Marple South.
Looking back over previous results, the Tories haven't normally done well so be interesting to see what happens. Eg will people turn back to Lib Dem for example?
Lisa Smart seems to be sticking around and very involved in local groups etc.
As an aside, I am skeptical of candidates saying they have a business background if only working a number of months (coincidently in the same place as another councillor) and having left college very recently. I am not saying teenagers cannot be good councillors as they can (just look at Mhari Black). But they should make their circumstances clear in my opinion. However if too many Tory MPs and candidates live at home with parents they may come over as a tad not in the real world!
-
Why haven't I seen any Labour, UKIP or Green Party posters in North Marple? I have seen some Lib Dem and Conservative ones, and of course the Kevin Dowling ones which I have to say look bright and conspicuous whereas the others are badly sited and tiny (in the case of the Conservative posters are easily mistakable for Edward Mellor For Sale signs at a distance)! These small and unimaginative posters almost seem like an afterthought rather than a rally to arms in the competition for votes. OK there are other elements to an election not just the posters but it says something about this one when a one man band (independent) is easily winning against two political heavyweights! I also saw a car yesterday with a Kevin Dowling poster on its roof - you have to hand it the man for his original ideas in this political race.
-
How do we find out more about the candidates not on here? Especially for Marple South.
Looking back over previous results, the Tories haven't normally done well so be interesting to see what happens. Eg will people turn back to Lib Dem for example?
Lisa Smart seems to be sticking around and very involved in local groups etc.
As an aside, I am skeptical of candidates saying they have a business background if only working a number of months (coincidently in the same place as another councillor) and having left college very recently. I am not saying teenagers cannot be good councillors as they can (just look at Mhari Black). But they should make their circumstances clear in my opinion. However if too many Tory MPs and candidates live at home with parents they may come over as a tad not in the real world!
Hi @JMC , Im assuming that this is in reference to me, as I think I am the youngest candidate in Marple South by by around 35 years i have been told.
Incidentally, I am inclined to agree with you. I think, for many young people in politics, playing up to an image of themselves of having 'real world' experience, is all too easy. I for one have never said i had a business background- I work for an SME. Obviously the beauty of working for a small firm is that one minute you can be filing paper-work, the next minute speaking to senior level management of clients or suppliers. I would also like to add that I have worked in numerous environments, from MMP where I am today to an Almshouse in London- and even a pub in Strines (cue local boy credit). I jest..
I haven't been ambiguous in what I do, or what I stand for; I put forward an address of what I want to do with Marple, and what my vision is. If people like it, they will vote for it. If they don't, they wont. Thats democracy. But with reference to who I live with and my age (and there are many inaccuracies there) I think its irrelevant. In my opinion, we had two candidates who shone out at the general election. William Wragg and Michael Taylor- like their policies or not, at least they said what they stand for and stuck to it. I wish i could say the same for fellow candidates in this upcoming local election.
I must say that reading some of the threads on here, there isn't much positivity in regards to the future. Its more, which Lib Dem Cllr has jumped ship, defected here, another bullying scandal there- and its pretty depressing.
Whether I am voted in or not, Marple's representation can be better than Stockport Lib Dems - a party in disarray. They are the biggest shower in politics.
-
Hi @JMC , Im assuming that this is in reference to me, as I think I am the youngest candidate in Marple South by by around 35 years i have been told.
Incidentally, I am inclined to agree with you. I think, for many young people in politics, playing up to an image of themselves of having 'real world' experience, is all too easy. I for one have never said i had a business background- I work for an SME. Obviously the beauty of working for a small firm is that one minute you can be filing paper-work, the next minute speaking to senior level management of clients or suppliers. I would also like to add that I have worked in numerous environments, from MMP where I am today to an Almshouse in London- and even a pub in Strines (cue local boy credit). I jest..
I haven't been ambiguous in what I do, or what I stand for; I put forward an address of what I want to do with Marple, and what my vision is. If people like it, they will vote for it. If they don't, they wont. Thats democracy. But with reference to who I live with and my age (and there are many inaccuracies there) I think its irrelevant. In my opinion, we had two candidates who shone out at the general election. William Wragg and Michael Taylor- like their policies or not, at least they said what they stand for and stuck to it. I wish i could say the same for fellow candidates in this upcoming local election.
I must say that reading some of the threads on here, there isn't much positivity in regards to the future. Its more, which Lib Dem Cllr has jumped ship, defected here, another bullying scandal there- and its pretty depressing.
Whether I am voted in or not, Marple's representation can be better than Stockport Lib Dems - a party in disarray. They are the biggest shower in politics.
Some interesting points there. I can see where you are coming from and appreciate the response. You are right that the focus should be about what candidate's visions are. It will be interesting to see what the turnout will be like and the result.
-
bsolutely poor comments form somebody who seeks to be a futuristic local civic leader. Just really proves Kevin Dowling's manifesto about party politicking. If young Dowse is the political future for Marple, oh dear!
-
William Wragg and Michael Taylor- like their policies or not, at least they said what they stand for and stuck to it. I wish i could say the same for fellow candidates in this upcoming local election.
I must say that reading some of the threads on here, there isn't much positivity in regards to the future. Its more, which Lib Dem Cllr has jumped ship, defected here, another bullying scandal there- and its pretty depressing.
Whether I am voted in or not, Marple's representation can be better than Stockport Lib Dems - a party in disarray. They are the biggest shower in politics.
Party in disarray? Like the national Tory party? Be careful what you say, young Mr Dowse!
In the last few years all parties in Stockport have had defections (including yours) with the exception of the Heald Green Ratepayers.
I'd like to think that we are both caring yet pragmatic in the Stockport LDs. In spite of £21 million cut from government, we've managed to renew the roads, save a bus, investigate parking and actually put the money forward to support parks.
Also I've been to a number of Neighbourhood Plan meetings. Have you? (As you said in a leaflet)
A shower? I would say we are clean, positive, strong and full of ideas. Are you?
(That was a political outburst. But I dislike innuendo and half-truths.)
-
Your points are well made Geoff although I do think you could have also mentioned the Stockport Tory Council's group budget proposals which would have meant cuts in funding to parks in Marple . Something the Tory never seem to mention in Marple.
If anyone wants to see a party in disarray I suggest they watch it with their own eyes by watching the webcast of the last council meeting and watch the Tories trying to face three ways on forced academisation. Much to the delight of all the other party's in the council.
-
Your points are well made Geoff although I do think you could have also mentioned the Stockport Tory Council's group budget proposals which would have meant cuts in funding to parks in Marple . Something the Tory never seem to mention in Marple.
I won't enter into a debate on here about the budget so this will be my only post on it. However, I will mention the Conservative budget proposals and correct the mis-information that is out there thanks to our Lib Dem colleagues. @wheels at least if you are going to spout off, check your facts. Despite what some leaflets may say, our Budget proposals would not have meant cuts in funding to parks in Marple. The Stockport Conservative group proposed that the additional 1.75% increase in Council tax was rejected and the shortfall of £1.3m was bridged utilising the funds from the £4m of underspend in the last financial years accounts. The money for the parks came from the Conservative Government transition grants of £1m this year and next year. Our proposal did not touch this proposal.
In summary - The budget shortfall for 2016/2017 was £1.3m
Lib Dem led Council had a £4m underspend this year
The Executive allocated £7m to reserves in nine months in 2015/2016
This increased the reserves to £64m, from £20m in 2010
The Executive increased Council tax by additional 1.75% above social care precept which raises £2.3m, £1m above what is needed.
In these times of austerity, your Lib Dem led Council has managed to grow its reserves from £20m in 2010 to £64m in 2016 (an increase of 305% and annual growth rate of 17.28%, which is significantly above the rate of inflation). Why is this? Why are the people of Stockport being used as a bank by the Council? I understand there have been necessary cuts in the budget and choices have to be made but the situation may not be quite as bad as is painted. If I could increase my savings by 305% in 5 years while at the same time my income was falling, with the same level of bills, I would be a very happy man and would indicate to me that for the last 5 years I have been a very wasteful man in terms of what I spent my money on.
At the last Marple Area Committee, Cllr Candler stated that to bring all of Stockports parks up to standard, the Council would need to be spend approx £1m. This is 1/64th of the reserves of the Council, and yet we struggle to get funding for parks in High Lane, Marple, Mill Brow and for Middlewood Way.
So while your Lib Dem Councillors continue to cut services and blame austerity cuts, they have managed to grow their bank account significantly. Your local Conservative Councillors will keep campaigning and challenging them to stop playing their political games at the expense of Stockport residents and to spend the significant amounts of money they have on the services people need.
-
The Tory Group wanted to use the transisional funding to reduce the council tax. That would have meant it was unavailable to put into maintain services and supporting parks. It's quite simple you can't use funding twice by wanting to use it to reduce the CT you were therefore suggesting cuts in funding to parks.
-
The Tory Group wanted to use the transisional funding to reduce the council tax. That would have meant it was unavailable to put into maintain services and supporting parks. It's quite simple you can't use funding twice by wanting to use it to reduce the CT you were therefore suggesting cuts in funding to parks.
Don't let the facts stand in the way of a good argument! No we didn't. We proposed using the £4m underspend to reduce the Council tax.
-
The Tory Group wanted to use the transitional funding to reduce the council tax. That would have meant it was unavailable to put into maintain services and supporting parks. It's quite simple you can't use funding twice by wanting to use it to reduce the CT you were therefore suggesting cuts in funding to parks.
@wheels - you obviously know something about council funding! You don't work for SMBC do you?
@CllrKennyBlair - I am grateful that the Conservative group did put forward an alternative budget for once, so we can see the difference in emphasis.
From memory, you planned to put up council tax by 2%, plugging the gap with the 900K transitional funding and an anticipated underspend in some depts.
But in council every speaker on your side (except Annette) mentioned reserves as an argument.
Our auditors would not like us to dip into reserves too much (tempting as it is). There are guidelines for this as Steve H (our retiring finance officer in the council) reminded us all. Reserves are more or less as they were.
Your group was talking about Earmarked Reserves (my capitals) - money set aside for projects. There are more of these as we try to pool budgets and find better ways to save money. We do have to cope with the £21 million we lost this year alone. IN addition to all the previous years. Perhaps Earmarked Reserves should be called something different - Earmarks Funding, perhaps?
I do recognise that the nation should try to balance its books. But local government is proving to be the easy whipping boy. Lord Porter, a Conservative councillor and the chair of the Local Government Association said in Nov,
“It is wrong that the services our local communities rely on will face deeper cuts than the rest of the public sector yet again, and for local taxpayers to be left to pick up the bill for new government policies without any additional funding.”
As Kenny knows I do try to stick to facts! As does he, to be fair.
-
Geoff,
You must be the only poster/reader on this website who doesn't actually know the real identity of Wheels. We just don't say anything about it and we allow him to think that he's in cognito.
I am afraid your unknowledge doesn't say much though, about local Councillors being in touch with their community.
-
Tis a pity that our locally elected LibDem and Conservative representatives seemingly take every opportunity to distract themselves and their electorate with party bashing.
I am no financial expert but my take on this is:
I do understand why a Council needs to have some money 'set aside' for a rainy day. Some people may argue that the rainy day has arrived, in fact every day is a rainy day as this Conservative Government continues to batter local government with more responsibilities and associated costs at the same time as reducing the amount of money coming from Central Government. I think its called Revenue Support Grant'.
Much of what Councils have to do now means working in completely different ways - such as with people in the NHS on joining up Health and Social Care. This is a good thing to do and should help to both reduce costs and improve the lives of people who are caught up in a currently confusing health care system. But all those changes and many others won't happen overnight so 'one off' monies will be needed to help that transition. So, in this example, a 'one off' sum of money or 'earmarked reserve' is a prudent thing to have.
Ear Marked reserves are like having the set of jam jars my mother used to have. She had one jar, for say a 'holiday fund'; one to pay for repairs to the washing machine if it broke down or a new one; one for replacement shoes for all her kids etc. But if she needed money urgently, she would take the money from the holiday fund jar as that was the least important things in her life, but she would also try and start putting money back into that jar.
So, sometimes, having money set aside for a 'rainy day' can become an obsession. Deciding whether it really is a 'rainy day' and we need to dip into our savings is what we pay our local government officers to advise our locally elected members to decide.
But once the reserves are spent, what happens then if, for example, there is a sudden increase in the numbers of children coming into care or we have a succession of really bad winters and the gritters need to be out every night for 4 months of the year?
Getting the balance right between spending the reserves and building the reserves up is a difficult one.
-
Sounds good Kevin,
Perhaps we should ask your mother to take up the post being made vacant by the council's retiring finance officer.
-
Geoff,
You must be the only poster/reader on this website who doesn't actually know the real identity of Wheels. We just don't say anything about it and we allow him to think that he's in cognito.
I wish there was a "like" button!
Does he really think he's incognito?
-
Sounds good Kevin,
Perhaps we should ask your mother to take up the post being made vacant by the council's retiring finance officer.
Interesting theory Simone, but Alas she passed away a few years ago and is now in the great jam jar in the sky.
-
Getting the balance right between spending the reserves and building the reserves up is a difficult one.
I don't know so perhaps someone can enlighten me. Is there a level of reserves councils must keep & if so how does Stockport measure up? For charities there is clear guidance from the Charity Commission - it should be 6-12 months of turnover so is there something similar for councils?
-
I don't know so perhaps someone can enlighten me. Is there a level of reserves councils must keep & if so how does Stockport measure up? For charities there is clear guidance from the Charity Commission - it should be 6-12 months of turnover so is there something similar for councils?
Hello Corium,
If you visit www.cipfa.org which is The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accounting. Then read the briefing paper "English Local Authority Reserves June 2015." This will better inform you. The only downside is that you are likely to lose the will to live, halfway through the read.
-
Hello Corium,
Then read the briefing paper "English Local Authority Reserves June 2015." This will better inform you. The only downside is that you are likely to lose the will to live, halfway through the read.
Here's a direct link to the report: http://www.cipfa.org/~/media/files/cipfa%20thinks/briefing-paper-lg-reserves-v12.pdf?la=en (http://www.cipfa.org/%7E/media/files/cipfa%20thinks/briefing-paper-lg-reserves-v12.pdf?la=en). (nearly lost the will just trying to find it!)
-
Here's a direct link to the report: http://www.cipfa.org/~/media/files/cipfa%20thinks/briefing-paper-lg-reserves-v12.pdf?la=en (http://www.cipfa.org/%7E/media/files/cipfa%20thinks/briefing-paper-lg-reserves-v12.pdf?la=en). (nearly lost the will just trying to find it!)
Thank you admin, your work and technical expertise is appreciated. Good luck Corium.
-
Geoff,
You must be the only poster/reader on this website who doesn't actually know the real identity of Wheels. We just don't say anything about it and we allow him to think that he's incognito.
Thanks - everyone has now told me! We try to preserve the air of anonymity - except for the political aspirants. Which is a bit sad really.
I am interested if @corium gets something out of it. I've had to know a lot more financial detail since being elected. I suspect Kevin had even more exposure when he was a LD exec member, so he knows what he's talking about.
-
How much money does it cost to run a local election campaign?
Where does the money come from, is it taken from the public purse?
Interested to know. ....
-
How much money does it cost to run a local election campaign?
Where does the money come from, is it taken from the public purse?
Interested to know. ....
Yes it's a very good question salemoorgirl and you've a right to know.
As to the first part of your question How Much? It is not easy to answer. Firstly it depends on what sort of campaign you wish to ruin (was that a Freudian slip?) and also if you are part of a political party and how large/small the party is. If you wish to have, say 50 posters and a delivery of 2 sets of leaflets to all the dwellings in Marple North as I have, (John, Malcolm, you now know the full strength of my campaign) then provision of those would probably cost approx. £1000.00. However you then have to deliver the leaflets and erect the posters.
The second part of your question is easier. There is no money from the public purse allocated for local/parliamentary elections although many think it would be fairer if there was.
-
Yes it's a very good question salemoorgirl and you've a right to know.
As to the first part of your question How Much? It is not easy to answer. Firstly it depends on what sort of campaign you wish to ruin (was that a Freudian slip?) and also if you are part of a political party and how large/small the party is. If you wish to have, say 50 posters and a delivery of 2 sets of leaflets to all the dwellings in Marple North as I have, (John, Malcolm, you now know the full strength of my campaign) then provision of those would probably cost approx. £1000.00. However you then have to deliver the leaflets and erect the posters.
The second part of your question is easier. There is no money from the public purse allocated for local/parliamentary elections although many think it would be fairer if there was.
Where does the money actually come from then? Does that mean that the candidate with the most money has the best chance of winning the election?
-
Where does the money actually come from then? Does that mean that the candidate with the most money has the best chance of winning the election?
-
Good questions. And I hope the answer to the second is No.
Money comes from supporters and members of the parties. Traditionally, Labour also got money from Trades Union sources and the Conservatives from business, but that's probably less so in local elections. Fundraising.
But for all UK elections there is a maximum you may spend (for local elections basically during April and May till the election) and this must be published. How much per ward depends on how many voters you have in that ward, and it equates to a little over £1000 per ward I think. (I am neither candidate nor agent this time so I don't know exactly.) But we certainly aren't talking the vast amounts spent during the US presidential elections!
-
Where does the money actually come from then? Does that mean that the candidate with the most money has the best chance of winning the election?
Not the most money salemoorgirl, but the candidate with the most resources should have the best chance of winning, at least in theory.
All candidates are allowed the same monetary limit. Which is based on an equation against the number of electorate in any given ward. If my memory is good each candidate is allowed a maximum £740 PLUS 6pence for each member of the electorate. In the case of Marple North, it amounts to just under £1,300 maximum for each candidate. Where does the money come from? If you take the David and Goliath situation that exists in the ward with the libdems being Goliath and me being David. The candidate's money comes from party funds whereas mine comes out of my own pocket. Councillors also make financial contributions, on a percentage basis to their party's from the councillors allowances they get from the tax payer.
As well as this Goliath has approaching 200 local members whereas David has but a handful of volunteers. So when it comes to all the activities associated with elections; canvassing, putting posters up, writing/delivering leaflets etc, Goliath has a queue of people fighting each other for the task whereas I usually have to do it myself.
So yes the libdems in theory should easily win Marple North. Then again we all know what happened to Goliath.
-
Marple North, it amounts to just under £1,300 maximum for each candidate. Where does the money come from? If you take the David and Goliath situation that exists in the ward with the libdems being Goliath and me being David. The candidate's money comes from party funds whereas mine comes out of my own pocket. Councillors also make financial contributions, on a percentage basis to their party's from the councillors allowances they get from the tax payer.
As well as this Goliath has approaching 200 local members whereas David has but a handful of volunteers. So when it comes to all the activities associated with elections; canvassing, putting posters up, writing/delivering leaflets etc, Goliath has a queue of people fighting each other for the task whereas I usually have to do it myself.
So yes the libdems in theory should easily win Marple North. Then again we all know what happened to Goliath.
Well, I'm in Marple South, so I don't have an independent to vote for. I think that regrettably, there are too many people in Marple who agree with Private Willis from Iolanthe.
Then let's rejoice with loud Fal lal—Fal lal la!
That Nature wisely does contrive—Fal lal la!
That every boy and every gal
That's born into the world alive,
Is either a little Liberal,
Or else a little Conservative!
Fal lal la!
-
If the Lib Dems are the biggest party why is their poster display so poor with little posters you can hardly see!
Maybe their complacency will lose them this election along with the Conservatives!
-
That's the first time Lib Dems have been called Goliath!
Elections are not won by posters. They are won by candidates with good ideas. In this case good plans for Marple and getting stuck in to things going on locally. I know there is also negative campaigning, but there fortunately hasn't too much here in Marple North.
Incidentally Kevin, you know I don't see too well - couldn't you have made your Goliath posters a bit bigger?
-
That's the first time Lib Dems have been called Goliath!
Elections are not won by posters. They are won by candidates with good ideas. In this case good plans for Marple and getting stuck in to things going on locally. I know there is also negative campaigning, but there fortunately hasn't too much here in Marple North.
Incidentally Kevin, you know I don't see too well - couldn't you have made your Goliath posters a bit bigger?
I think Kevin's David & Goliath analogy is a fair one. Whilst I would be the first to admit the libdems are a political irrelevance nationally, they are not so in Marple with a chest full of money and an army of volunteers.
It's just as well posters don't win elections Geoff, because if they did we would have an independent councillor in Marple North by Friday. By comparison your poster display is poor.The Goliath libdems have been out postered by one man band Kevin.It makes me consider, if that's the effort your candidate puts into his posters, what effort would he put into the council.
It's interesting Geoff, that you say elections are won by candidates with good ideas, what are these good ideas that your candidate has, in fact where is your candidate? He's not picking litter up in the park again is he ?
-
Only 1 candidate come to my door to speak to me, I made him work hard justifying his policies etc – my wife thought I was not very nice, as I had already voted for him (postal vote)!
The same candidate has been putting round leaflets for a long time, and not just at election time.
PS Posters on a pappy farm does not get me to vote for the candidate….., so poster may be a waist of time.
-
Only 1 candidate come to my door to speak to me
That's one more than I've had. Then again, I've not had anyone at the door from any party at any election, local or general since 1997 and not for a local election since well before that. Of course I am out at work all day, so may well have missed some.
-
Haven't had anyone round either. Quite disappointed. Last person was Shan Alexander.
Never see Tories round my neck of the woods. Not a bad thing.
-
the libdems .... are not so in Marple with a chest full of money and an army of volunteers.
Kevin knows very well how few people we can call on. In fact Kevin used to be one. He was Mr Posterman, until he let his membership lapse.
We were in a meeting at the Royal Scot last week to help Friends of Brabyns Park get re-established. Kevin was there. That sort of good idea. Help Friends of Mill Brow get some equipment back. Sort out Marple Bridge parking. Save the 394. You did ask!
That's one more than I've had. Then again, I've not had anyone at the door from any party at any election, local or general since 1997 and not for a local election since well before that. Of course I am out at work all day, so may well have missed some.
We have tried to get to most people in the last 9 months. It's better in the sun like today than the hail of last week!
-
Kevin knows very well how few people we can call on. In fact Kevin used to be one. He was Mr Posterman, until he let his membership lapse.
We were in a meeting at the Royal Scot last week to help Friends of Brabyns Park get re-established. Kevin was there. That sort of good idea. Help Friends of Mill Brow get some equipment back. Sort out Marple Bridge parking. Save the 394. You did ask!
We have tried to get to most people in the last 9 months. It's better in the sun like today than the hail of last week!
A somewhat perplexing post Geoff and difficult to respond to. Have you been in the Royal Scot again ?
-
Kevin knows very well how few people we can call on. In fact Kevin used to be one. He was Mr Posterman, until he let his membership lapse.
We were in a meeting at the Royal Scot last week to help Friends of Brabyns Park get re-established. Kevin was there. That sort of good idea. Help Friends of Mill Brow get some equipment back. Sort out Marple Bridge parking. Save the 394. You did ask!
We have tried to get to most people in the last 9 months. It's better in the sun like today than the hail of last week!
Geoff, did you write this when you got in from the pub or were you just drinking at home?
-
Well in Marple North it hasn't been a very interesting campaign.
In fact if it hadn't been for Kevin Dowling's much talked about posters and of course Kevin himself we would hardly have known that there was an election on.
-
I was tired - there's an election on! - sadly any drinks come after Thurs.
In response to posts - It's not who the prospective councillor is, it's what they DO that should count. Or even, dare I say it, promise to do.
-
Well in Marple North it hasn't been a very interesting campaign.
In fact if it hadn't been for Kevin Dowling's much talked about posters and of course Kevin himself we would hardly have known that there was an election on.
What election????
-
Interesting take from @Michael Taylor on the local elections on his blog http://themarpleleaf.blogspot.com/2016/05/blog-post.html (http://themarpleleaf.blogspot.com/2016/05/blog-post.html). For those of you who might not remember, Michael was the Labour party candidate for Hazel Grove in the 2015 general election.
-
I wonder if he would stand again since he detests the current party leadership.
-
I was tired - there's an election on! - sadly any drinks come after Thurs.
So that wasn't you I saw in Oldknows bar last week.
-
Interesting take from @Michael Taylor on the local elections on his blog http://themarpleleaf.blogspot.com/2016/05/blog-post.html (http://themarpleleaf.blogspot.com/2016/05/blog-post.html). For those of you who might not remember, Michael was the Labour party candidate for Hazel Grove in the 2015 general election.
Not very interesting really. Just a blatant plug for the Labour party as you would expect from Michael. Probably got a point about the lib dem leadership. Libdems in Stockport are starting to whiff a bit.
-
Please remember to vote today. Polling Stations open 7am to 10pm
[attachment deleted by admin]
-
One thing I've noticed this year is a marked absence of canvassing. I've not had anybody at my door, something I'm quite pleased about as in the past it could be a bit of a pest.
Has it though gone out of fashion and been replaced by social media?
-
Please remember to vote today. Polling Stations open 7am to 10pm
If you want a self serving, money grabbing group of born to rule toff's!
The Government are a sham - in total disarray over Europe, Academies, the NHS and the Junior Doctors, the deficit is rising month by month, every financial forecast by Osborne has been missed by a country mile, inequality and child poverty is rising, there are no homes that are affordable, elderly care homes are going to the wall, colossal budget cuts which are savaging local councils and tax breaks for the likes of google and multi-millionaires!
Why vote for this on a smaller scale?
[attachment deleted by admin]
-
One thing I've noticed this year is a marked absence of canvassing. I've not had anybody at my door, something I'm quite pleased about as in the past it could be a bit of a pest.
Has it though gone out of fashion and been replaced by social media?
I can't recall ever having anyone call at our house since we moved here in 1989. What is very different this year for me is that I always remember a sea of orange posters everywhere and we used to play spot the labour or conservative ones. Thinking back this has been in decline for a few years but this year on Woodville Drive I have only noticed one and this is outside the house of a family related to a LibDem councillor. I haven't noticed any labour, conservative or other colour in the areas near where I live that I regularly pass. There are a couple for Malcolm Allan on the route to school and that's all.
-
Just having a look @ John Bates's 3 reasons. Political naivety at it'as wildest as well as empty rhetoric.
Reason 1. It is no accident after all these years that Stockport let alone Marple has no tram/metrolink facility. There are a dozen sound reasons why it hasn't happened and you will be absolutely powerless to do anything about any of them.
Reason 2. As a recently retired local government director who specialized in neighbourhood and communities, I can tell you that the 'Neighbourhood Plan' is a completely insignificant end to a completely insignificant process. It has no rights whatsoever enshrined in legislation and the Council will just completely ignore it at will.
So again John Empty Rhetoric.
Reason 3. INDEED !!
So for the leaflet John, you are awarded Nil Point.
-
Sorry John,
I forgot to say this. I was at one time considering voting for you, although I have to admit it was a bit of an unlikelihood. However if I did harbour any such inclinations then they have been completely vanquished by the political naivety you have displayed in this leaflet.
It is a frightening thought for Marple but after this election, Marple could have five Councillors who have a total 4 years experience between all of them. Whan Labour takes over the council Marple will get nothing.
-
So if you don't mind me asking Hoffnung who are you actually voting for?
-
So if you don't mind me asking Hoffnung who are you actually voting for?
No, I don't mind telling you Simone, I've voted for KevinDowling
-
No, I don't mind telling you Simone, I've voted for KevinDowling
Another wasted vote.
-
Well Done Hoffnung, I've also voted for KevinDowling
-
Surprise suprise, I'm also voting for Kevin Dowling :D
-
You'll be surprised to know that I'm voting for Kevin Dowling.
-
So am I. Another vote for Kevin Dowling
-
Thank you,
Hoffnung, Simone, Maxine.
That's at least four votes I've got five if you count the wife's.
-
Thank you Salemoorgirl, six votes, could be a close run thing here.
-
Well I've not been in the area that long and I know I've voted for the right person. Don't you worry Kevin, you should be getting a hell of a lot more votes than that!
-
Thank you Maxine, appreciate your support.
-
Another wasted vote.
Well Amazon, looks like you've unleashed a bit of a barrage here. There seems to be a few 'wasted' votes for Kevin Dowling. Who are you voting for by the way?
-
Well Amazon, looks like you've unleashed a bit of a barrage here. There seems to be a few 'wasted' votes for Kevin Dowling. Who are you voting for by the way?
LIB DEMS .BY POST
-
If you want a self serving, money grabbing group of born to rule toff's!
The Government are a sham - in total disarray over Europe, Academies, the NHS and the Junior Doctors, the deficit is rising month by month, every financial forecast by Osborne has been missed by a country mile, inequality and child poverty is rising, there are no homes that are affordable, elderly care homes are going to the wall, colossal budget cuts which are savaging local councils and tax breaks for the likes of google and multi-millionaires!
Why vote for this on a smaller scale?
Some fair points. Tories are now seen as very nasty indeed by many. Beats me how so many keep voting them. Plus Marple South Candidate is very young 18/19 and am not sure much life experience. Appreciate he seems very keen. But even so how many living with parents do we need as well as Wragg?
I would have far more respect for them if they voted against the more horrid policies like some back bench tories. But Wragg etc are happy to vote along with everything. Furthermore Wragg was willing to stick up for foxes but not children in poverty and disabled people. Also seems to be taking on board the typical sneering and making fun of people's spelling on social media (twitter). I have only heard bad things about him locally.
So as you can guess no tory voting here.
-
Tories are now seen as very nasty indeed by many.
It crossed my mind today that they may be beginning to realise that. It's just an odd coincidence that the government should choose polling day to announce concessions on two of the most contentious current issues - the junior doctors dispute, and the refusal to accept any lone child refugees from mainland Europe.
-
And another "wasted" vote here
-
And another "wasted" vote here
all the people with wasted votes ,can i not persuade you to donate five pounds to the skate park fund /come on its a bit of fun for a good cause .
-
And another "wasted" vote here
Thank you Snowball, extremely grateful. Even if Simone only thinks that you talk about dog pooh and you think she only posts to get her count up, neither is true of either one, and I know that you are both good people who care about Marple.
-
Congratulations to Malcolm Allan on being elected to Marple North ward
-
Congratulations to Tom Dowse on being elected to Marple South.
-
Only 9250 people voted in marple south & marple north. That is a shockingly low number when you consider the overall population of marple.
-
Yes, congratulations @Malcolm Allan and @TomDowseMarpleSouth our new Marple Local Councillors.
In the case of Malcolm in particular, some folk on this forum were very wrong. It was a very tight battle between Tom and Colin MacAlister, only 23 votes in it.
Here are the full results for the two Marple Wards:
[attachment deleted by admin]
-
Thanks to John for his kind post. I've bumped in to John a lot during the campaign. He's a really nice man, strikes me as very sincere and has conducted his campaign in a positive and proper manner. Also congratulations to Tom in Marple South and I look forward to working with him alongside the other standing Councillors to work for the whole community in Marple, Compstall, Marple Bridge, Mellor and Mill Brow.
-
I echo Malcolm's and John's comments and below is a link to a few extra details on last night, in addition to the results posted by @admin (and thanks for that)
http://marple.mycouncillor.org.uk/2016/05/06/2016-election-results-in-marple-and-stockport/#page-content (http://marple.mycouncillor.org.uk/2016/05/06/2016-election-results-in-marple-and-stockport/#page-content)
I see someone else spotted the error on the SMBC website calling @Kevin Dowling a Lib Dem. I think everyone was a bit tired by that stage.
-
Less than 50% turnout in both wards. Would these results stand if a union balloted for strike action and less than half its members voted?
-
Thanks to John for his kind post. I've bumped in to John a lot during the campaign. He's a really nice man, strikes me as very sincere and has conducted his campaign in a positive and proper manner. Also congratulations to Tom in Marple South and I look forward to working with him alongside the other standing Councillors to work for the whole community in Marple, Compstall, Marple Bridge, Mellor and Mill Brow.
Thanks for the kind words @Malcolm Allan :) I think we can all agree it has been a good and positive campaign in Marple North on all sides. Thank you all.
-
Less than 50% turnout in both wards. Would these results stand if a union balloted for strike action and less than half its members voted?
46 and 49% are surprisingly good turnouts for a local election by itself. 20-30% is more normal. And the Police and Crime Comm elections (now to be supplanted by GM Mayor elections) was rock bottom.
But I do take your point about union ballots.
People have suggested making voting compulsory, as in Belgium and Australia. Would you support that?
I personally would prefer a PR system so that votes for 2nd, 3rd and 4th candidates still count. Scotland seems to be able to cope with it.
-
Hi Geoff, agree on turnout and perhaps it would be a good idea to make it compulsory to vote. There are many different systems that could be used although I anticipate whatever system is used, someone would complain about it. In addition, the AV system was proposed in 2011 and resoundingly rejected by the electorate, interestingly with a 42.2% turnout.
Point about Scotland is incorrect, they don't use the system you state, they use the Additional Member System, a form of PR. http://www.parliament.scot/visitandlearn/Education/16285.aspx
I think the London Mayor election used a system similar to the one you mention.
-
I think more basic politics should be taught in schools and more leaflets etc about how things work at local and national level. I have spoken to so many people lately (grown competent adults) who say they 'don't get it' or 'don't do politics'. Same people don't vote in GE. I def think we need PR and online voting.
Additionally politicians need to be more representative. Too often we hear 'what's the point, they're all the same, they're out for themselves' etc. Doesn't help with the sort of people at the top in the Tory party today reinforcing this view. PMQs also showcases this sneering boys club type of politics. More people like Mhari Black are needed. Even Ruth Davison. But while it is a posh boys club dominating many people will remain estranged.
-
Thanks to John and Malcolm for their comments. Also to Colin, Sheila, Grahame and Graham in Marple South for a good campaign.
I look forward to work with all the Cllrs, regardless of their party to help improve the area. @Malcolm Allan and I will be working close with Sue Ingham on the Neighbourhood plan, which I'm glad has cross party support. (Michael Taylor is also a great proponent for the NP).
It was a very close fight in Marple South, and I'm glad to be the first Conservative elected in Marple South in a normal non general election local election since the 80s! Malcom and I need to remember that at this election, more people voted against us combined than for us. So we will be working for everyone in Marple North and South regardless of how people voted.
Thanks to John for his kind post. I've bumped in to John a lot during the campaign. He's a really nice man, strikes me as very sincere and has conducted his campaign in a positive and proper manner. Also congratulations to Tom in Marple South and I look forward to working with him alongside the other standing Councillors to work for the whole community in Marple, Compstall, Marple Bridge, Mellor and Mill Brow.
-
Well done to all those who played any part in the election.
Congratulations to Malcolm & Tom.
-
Thank you to all my supporters, every single one of 315 of you, even though one of those 315 is me, you are all tremendous people with original thought.
It was a great result first time out, from a standing start and with only a four week campaign. This is just the start. There are no elections in 2017. But, if I'm still around in 2018, I'll be going again and this time I'll be fitter, stronger, more organised and I'll have a lot longer to organise my campaign than 4 weeks.
Watch out Geoff, behind you !
-
So now Labour are the largest party on SMBC, and we have a newly appointed Labour Council Leader. Will we notice any difference?
-
The only difference I've noticed is that @wheels has been very quiet of late!