By Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter
Islanders are being asked to share their views on how councillors can improve their decision-making and become more inclusive, as part of a look into the way the County Hall works.
A review is underway into its ‘leader and cabinet’ system, which sees a few councillors making decisions for the whole Island. Cllr Geoff Brodie, who put forward the proposals in July, said he felt the cabinet model fails to involve all elected councillors in decision-making.
It could mean a return to a ‘committee’ system, which would mean decisions would be made by more councillors in specific, politically balanced teams. The Future Governance Working Group is now seeking the views of Islanders, asking how well they think the current system engages residents and whether they think their local representatives can influence decisions that, in turn, affect voters.
Cllr Andrew Garratt, chair of the audit and governance committee, said he wants to hear what residents would like to see improved.
If you want to share your thoughts, contact your elected IW Council representative by October 31. You can get their contact details at iow.life/councillors.
The working group will report back with its findings in January.
Carole Dennett