Town Council Zoom Meeting

Mark Stidworthy, the Mayor of Ilkley Town Council, spoke about the role of the Council. A veterinary surgeon by training and career he joined the Council in 2017 and become Mayor in 2019. Members are elected on 4 yearly cycles by party political affiliation but they do try and work together whenever this is possible. Funds are raised by precept and the power of general competence is given to the Council to do things such as managing assets such as the allotments, Tourist Information Centre, the Darwin Gardens Trust and the toilets. Representation is at Ward level: West, North, South and Ben Rhydding. All the councillors have local knowledge and are keen to listen to the public at open meetings on such issues as the climate debate, anti social behaveur and litter. The Council acts as a point of contact and referral to identify the needs of residents and liaise with Bradford MDC, the police, the local MP, West Yorkshire Council and voluntary groups. Planning often forms a major part of any consultations. The main changes since May 2019 have been equal numbers of male and female council members; and consensus on vision, purpose and improving communication with the general well being in neighbourhoods. Regarding COVID, some councillors have been involved in coordination and communication. Committee structures have been reorganised to streamline and make it clear what they can do. Since 2019, 11 out of 14 councillors are new to the job and they are able to nurture new talents, skills and vision and rebalance the amount of money distributed by grants. A new website has been created and improvements into the approach to all forms of media. The needs of young people are vital and post COVID there needs to be more cultural and educational opportunities.