“Use your vote” says Rotherham’s lead commissioner

LEAD commissioner Sir Derek Myers has urged voters to ensure they have their say in this spring’s council elections and explained why the all-out poll is crucial for Rotherham Borough Council’s recovery.

Sir Derek said the council was now in its second year of “rebuilding its confidence and reforming its services, practices and culture”.

He added: “New councillors have stepped forward to take positions of responsibility. 

“We have a new senior management team coming into place to take the council and the borough forward. 

“We want a competent, successful council that deserves residents’ trust.

“Our aim as commissioners is to support the council as it develops sustainable services and regulation, so that healthy democratic leadership can be restored. 

“We have already returned some powers to the council and will look to return others as soon as responsible after the local elections.”

All 63 seats are up for election in the election on May 5, meaning any existing councillors who want to stand again have to be re-elected.

Sir Derek added: “As residents this is your chance to vote for the people you want to represent you and your community for the next four years.

“This is your council and you have the right to choose who makes the big decisions, sets the council tax and decides priorities.

“At the last local elections in Rotherham only 35 per cent of registered residents voted. 

“I hope that this year, many more of you will use your vote so that your council represents your views and needs.”

To vote, you first need to be on the electoral register. To register or check you are registered go to www.rotherham.gov.uk/elections

The deadline for new registration is April 18. If you cannot vote in person, you can apply for a postal or proxy vote by 5pm on April 26.

  • See this week's Advertiser for a two-page special on the candidates and parties vying it out for Town Hall supremacy.
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