York Council to take part in Local Democracy Week

This week is Local Democracy Week, and the City of York Council are celebrating!

From 15th-21st October, residents will be encouraged to get involved with local decision making in a bid to increase public participation with democracy.

And it’s not without good reason. Local elections will take place on 2nd May 2019 – and your vote could make all the difference. The Council is so keen for everyone to have their say, that they’re even extending the registration deadline from 22nd November 2018 until 12th April 2019. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to have your voice heard!

If you’re a student, then you’re even more wanted. Registration forms will be distributed to university halls of residence between 29th October and 12th November, making it even easier to sign up to vote. Pop-up voter stations will appear in university campuses, and members of the Council’s electoral services will be there to answer any questions.

Project Dare, run by local charity York Cares, works to inspire 11-16 year-olds to reach their full potential. The City of York Council will be working with Project Dare by running a two-day workshop for pupils aged 14-15, to engage them with the democratic process.

Cllr Ian Gillies, Leader of City of York Council said: “York is one of Britain’s oldest centres of democracy. This year, we’re really keen [that] more students and young people start to get involved in local democracy. Whether voting or campaigning, we want to hear their voices.”

Take Part

The City of York Council have released 10 top tips on how to get involved in local democracy – and here they are:

• Register to vote.
• Consider becoming a Councillor.
• Share your views in a survey.
• Share your views about Bootham Park. The exhibition is currently on display at West Offices, or in the foyer of York Hospital.
• Sign up for a free walking tour to discuss how Bootham Park can play a role in York’s future.
• Submit or sign an e-petition.
• Arrange to speak at a public council meeting.
• Join Talk About, our residents panel.
• Take the Council’s recently launched budget challenge to decide where they would allocate spend.
• Take part in a drop-in session. For example, About the Budget at West Offices between 5pm and 7pm on Tuesday 20 November.