West Devon June Report
WDBC – PC Report June 2023
· Thank you
I thank all those who supported me in the May elections. I am very pleased to be able to continue as your borough councillor for the next 4 years. I am happy to inform you that I have been chosen as Mayor of West Devon for the next year and am honoured to have this role. It will give me chance to meet many more people and listen to their views. As a council we can’t act unless we know what people want us to do. Please let me know of any issues or concerns you have as well as good ideas for improvements.
· Hardship Funds
There are difficult times ahead with the housing crisis and financial hardship two of the pressing concerns. I will do my best to support local people who are struggling to manage. WDBC have household support grants to give to people in need, so do apply online or if that is difficult let me know and our vulnerability officer can support you.
· HOUSING Needs Survey
WDBC will be undertaking a Housing needs survey in our area in late Summer. Please complete the online survey form and get anyone you know who has had difficulty finding affordable accommodation here and detail the impact this has had on their lives and wellbeing. I would like to see a small development of affordable housing in this area and the housing survey will provide the evidence of this need. If we can demonstrate that young people cant stay near family or work or where they want to be for support then it is likely that a small project could go ahead.
· Pre-election period
WDBC is still in the pre-election period following the death of one candidate and the sudden resignation of another. The council will reconvene on 27th June to decide on the makeup of committees and outside group representatives. I hope to be a Hub member again, holding the natural Environment leadership. Council committee meetings will then continue, and we will work hard to ensure decision making is robust and fair. The everyday work of our officer team continues unabated.