It is an
immense pleasure for me to submit this latest annual report, since being
successfully re-elected as ward councillor for Batley-East in May 2018.
As usual, I
have felt honoured to take on different types of front-line casework related
enquiries for local ward residents. The casework has been wide ranging – and
covered dealing with resident’s problems around housing, traffic congestion
issues, pavement repairs, litter problems – including fly-tipping, overgrown
hedges, planning applications, as well as much more.
I have relished
visiting my local ward residents, or dealing with their enquiries by email as
well as by telephone. For me, it is all to do with trying my best to help
improve people’s quality of life during what are some difficult and challenging
economic times for many neighbourhoods.
My work also
continues on a strategic level (working closely alongside my two ward
colleagues) by communicating with other agencies to help reduce crime, and to
promote Community Safety on our streets.
I always set
aside time from my busy diary to attend any local events which can help
strengthen Community Cohesion in our local area.
Finally, I
would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who again put their
trust in me during this year’s local elections, and decided that I should
continue to serve them for another term.
Surgeries …and contact
initiatives
I hold a
regular councillor’s surgery every second week of the month at the Jo Cox House
in Batley town centre.
I also take
part in street walkabouts throughout Batley-East to see what are the problems
faced by residents.
Our Challenges
Kirklees
Council (like many local authorities) has been affected by the severe cutbacks
in central government funding. This situation has forced Kirklees Council to
try and look at making savings whilst keeping services intact. The reality is
that it is not an easy situation – and local people like those in Batley-East
are the ones who are suffering when they – for example – see a lack of visible
uniform police presence in their neighbourhoods. The suffering is even great
when homes get broken into – and Kirklees Council is left aware there are not
even funds for local councillors to use in order to support Community Safety
projects.
Training & Development
·
Planning
Training (update)
·
Licensing
Training
Community Meetings
I attend all
the Council Meetings in my role as ward councillor for Batley-East. In addition,
I am also a member of the Heavy Woollen
Planning Sub-Committee, and the Licensing
& Safety Committee. I also take part in the Kirklees Labour Group
meetings.
