The general purpose of community councils is to act as a voice for their local area. This will involve them articulating the views and concerns of local people in their area on a wide range of issues of public concern and make representations to the City of Edinburgh Council, other public sector bodies and private agencies on matters within their sphere of interest. Community councils have a statu
tory right to be consulted on planning applications. They are competent objectors to all licence applications lodged with the Council in terms of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, which includes applications for House in Multiple Occupation licences. Community councils are the key community representative bodies within the local community planning arrangements across the city of Edinburgh. Community councils have representation on each of the 12 Neighbourhood Partnerships and have responsibility for the decisions of the Neighbourhood Partnerships covering the community council area they represent. Community councils should engage widely with their local communities to represent their views on the Neighbourhood Partnerships. It is essential that these views are demonstrated to be representative of the community and the community council should expect to be able to explain why they have taken a particular position on behalf of the community. The community council will endeavour to devise strategies to secure greater involvement by all sectors of the community. Community Council duties
Community councils have a duty under statute to represent the views of their local community. It is vital therefore, that they reflect the broad spectrum of opinion and interests of all sections of the community. In order to fulfil their responsibilities as effective and representative, community councils shall: -
Inform the community of the work and decisions of the community council by posting agendas and minutes of meetings in public places, such as libraries and notice boards; and subject to provisions contained within the Data Protection Act 1998, provide contact details of community council members. Agendas and whenever possible draft minutes of community councils' meetings should be circulated at least seven days before the date of the meeting to enable their circulation to the local authority, relevant elected members, council staff and other parties. Seek to broaden both representation and expertise by enlisting associate members onto the community council for specific projects/issues. Make particular efforts to encourage young people and other under-represented groups to attend/participate in community council meetings and activities to ensure equality of opportunity in the way the community council carries out its functions. Maintain proper financial records and present financial reports at community council meetings. Liaise closely with the City of Edinburgh Council on any change in membership (e.g. A community council shall be non-party political in all its activities.
