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By-election - Tom Horwood EHDC (27th Jan 2010 - 13:14:41) EHDC is seeking nominations for the vacant seat on Bramshott and Liphook Parish Council. If there is more than one candidate, the election will be on 11 March. More info at www.easthampshire.org/...

Re: By-election - Eneida (27th Jan 2010 - 15:26:08) Why not just co-opt the person that came second in the last bye election??...it wasn't that long ago. Personally, as a tax payer, I don't see the point of shelling out another £9K (I think that was about the cost last time) when it appears Councillors aren't allowed to say anything at all, without permission, once they're elected.... Eneida

Re: By-election - Tom Horwood EHDC (27th Jan 2010 - 22:55:47) Thanks for your response. EHDC was petitioned to hold an election. Once we have received the petition with the required 10 signatures, we have to start this process and call a by-election.

Re: By-election - Dawn Hoskins (28th Jan 2010 - 13:55:19) Hi Eneida, They won't want co-option because the majority won't want me anywhere near them!!! That would have been the cheapest option however......... I feel it appropriate that a man of truth be replaced by a person of truth. I am proud to say that Barry was a friend of mine, His values are my values. He fought secretive & underhanded behaviour right up until he died - I am so glad he lived long enough to see the FoIA ruling. I will be standing because I know Barry would want me to.

Re: By-election - Eneida (28th Jan 2010 - 15:16:17) No offence intended Dawn, but I'm not really fussed if it were you, the lady who came 3rd (can't remember her name) the Council cleaner or somebody's aunty!!! Since there doesn't seem to be the slightest concept of Democracy at the Parish Council....and I define that as someone elected by the public being able to air their views and concerns on whatever PC matters, directly to the public without fear of legal action (please don't explain the legality behind all that again :) ...I don't see the point of going through the farce of an expensive bye election...especially in these hard financial times. If they just need a 'bum on seat' to make up the numbers and say YES and NO when required, let them do it as cheaply as possible...after all what difference will it make who it is?? I shall certainly not be bothering to vote on March 11th, although I most certainly will on May 6th ;) Eneida

Re: By-election - Stephen (28th Jan 2010 - 18:25:47) Could Tom Horwood tell us who signed the petition for the election? Are we allowed to know this?

Re: By-election - Tom Horwood EHDC (29th Jan 2010 - 09:26:38) The petition was received on 21 January. It was signed by Michael Poke Hilary Poke Mary Walters Eve Hope Robert Hall Chris Poke James Walters Terence Burns Deidre Pidgeon David Lush

Re: By-election - Jane (29th Jan 2010 - 11:10:46) Mmmmmmmmm............................ Terry Burns for Parish Council would be good - I'd love to see them try and keep him quiet.........

Re: By-election - Dawn Hoskins (29th Jan 2010 - 12:31:45) I agree, if Terry would stand I would withdraw. We need a person who is prepared to take a no nonsense approach to the silliness (understatement!).

Re: By-election - Sue W (29th Jan 2010 - 18:59:55) Dawn I think they may be missing the only opportunity to keep you quiet!! The confidentiality clause?!!!!! Best to have within than outside eh??

Re: By-election - barbara (30th Jan 2010 - 12:46:42) If only one candidate comes forward then there will be no costs involved to the Parish it will be an automatic co-option. So far I have only heard of one person putting their name forward so perhaps it will be automatic.

Re: By-election - SW (30th Jan 2010 - 17:46:45) Closing date for names?

Re: By-election - Dawn Hoskins (31st Jan 2010 - 16:03:26) Nominations must be submitted between the period of Thursday 4 February and noon on Friday 12 February. Nomination papers are available from Hannah Smith, Electoral Registration Officer on 01730 234093. If the election is contested, polling will take place on Thursday 11 March between the hours of 7am and 10pm at The Liphook Millennium Centre and Liphook Church Centre.

Re: By-election - helen m (2nd Feb 2010 - 20:59:00) assuming more than one person steps up - how do we find out what they stand for - if anything - so we know who to vote for??? i dont really understand the ins and outs of the parish council but would love to know who does what - and i dont just mean a list of names and what committee they are on! where / who can i speak to find out. half the time reading the postings on here i feel like i am on the fringe and completely missing 90% of the conversation!! i would like to know for more than just interest. I am currently trying to get the playpark rennovated and having been to a rec committe meeting last night feel completely confused as to who is in charge!!

Re: By-election - Eneida (17th Feb 2010 - 15:12:22) Any news yet as to whether a bye-election will take place on March 11th?? I did look at the Parish Council's website but the latest News Bulletin there was about Harry Potter and I assume he's not intending to stand....shame really, that would liven up things no end ;)

Re: By-election - barbara (17th Feb 2010 - 18:38:01) yes 3 candidates are standing Dawn Hoskins 4 Arundel Villas Passfield Liphook Sangita Judge 19 Critchmere Hill Haslemere Nigel Mayall 99 Midhurst Road Liphook I believe that the second candidate Sangita Judge has a business with an address in Liphook which entitles her to stand for election.

Re: By-election - Dee (18th Feb 2010 - 09:22:14) How much is this by-election going to cost!!

Re: By-election - liz (18th Feb 2010 - 09:52:00) Are we going to hear from the individiual candidates? I live pretty close to the centre of the village and all I saw last time was one article in the Haslemere Herald.

Re: By-election - Eneida (18th Feb 2010 - 11:57:50) Dee, From reading about it at the time, I believe the last bye-election cost about £9K....I'm happy to be corrected if this figure is wrong :)

Re: By-election - Chris (18th Feb 2010 - 12:35:25) The ONLY Parish council election that I was made aware of was because of recieving through our door a comprehensive clear description of what Dawn Hoskins stood for. I didnt even know who the other candidates were. Chris

Re: By-election - Helen M (19th Feb 2010 - 09:28:19) sangita judge is the doctor at liphook village surgery isnt she - she's fab! i would like to see what they stand for - so i can vote with a purpose rather than for personality. looking forward to hearing where i can find out more!

Re: By-election - Marian (19th Feb 2010 - 18:06:39) Yes, Dr. Judge is one of the doctors at the Ship House Surgery. She is certainly fab - kind, caring and very interested in her patients. She will also take the time to chat if you bump into her 'out of hours'. I think she would be a tremendous asset to our Parish Council - especially as she has worked here for some time and her children attend the local schools here.

Re: By-election - Tom Horwood EHDC (20th Feb 2010 - 21:03:07) Yes, the last parish by-election was about £9k. Further info on this one can be found at www.easthampshire.org/newsdetail/...

Re: By-election - Paul Robinson (21st Feb 2010 - 08:40:51) Might I suggest that the three candidates who are standing in the Parish Council by-election follow Tom Horwood of EHDC lead and use Liphook.co.uk to outline their manifestos. Whilst the Parish Council as a body never uses this site, although one or two councillors do post here from time, there is no doubt that it is an effective way of communicating with parishioners. I recall that at least two of the candidates in the last election posted here and one of them was elected. Given the current low watermark that the Parish Council's credability has sunk to, new councillors need to demonstrate their visibility and accountability and whilst there is no substitute for doorstepping and publishing fliers, candidates could do a lot worse than by starting here. Paul Robinson [editor - Dawn Hoskins manifesto from last year can be seen here ]

Re: By-election - Sue W (21st Feb 2010 - 09:52:32) If what I have been told is true - another councillor has resigned, will this election now be for 2 places?

Re: By-election - barbara (22nd Feb 2010 - 11:43:44) The councillor you are thinking of is Jeremy Austin Olsen who is the newest elected councillor, he did not resign completely from the council, only as a member of the planning committee, the widening of the access road to Old Thorns was the reason he gave, but he is still a full member of the council.

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (23rd Feb 2010 - 10:37:48) Call for candidates manifestos. I read this thread with interest since I am one of the candidates for election. I welcome the opportunity to put my manifesto here for all to see; I have included it below. "Election Manifesto – Nigel Hugh Myall I have had the pleasure of being associated with Liphook since 1997 when I moved here with my wife and our children. After six years in Spain we returned here in 2008, our children going to local schools. I live and work in the parish and I am impressed with the community spirit that exists in Liphook and Bramshott. My particular interest in local politics came about after hearing of neighbours’ problems with flooding, not totally solved by recent drainage works on the Midhurst Road. The development of the parish in recent years has not been matched by improvements in infrastructure; for example roads, access and drainage. I want to see the council being more active in these areas, protecting the people and property of the parish. I am determined to put something back into the local community. I want to serve as your representative on the Parish Council. That means most importantly listening to your views and representing you at the council. I have always believed that if you want to influence the way things are done you have to get involved. You tell me what concerns you and I will try to get things done. That’s my promise to you." I have been looking for a way to avoid expensive printing of flyers (which few people read anyway). I will take the time to answer any questions you wish to put to me as best I can. I can assure you that I am no "yes" man. I look forward to receiving your views and questions, Nigel Myall

Re: By-election - Dawn Hoskins (23rd Feb 2010 - 13:06:29) Hello All Sorry for the absence. I can confirm that I am standing for election again. Just as before – I am not affiliated with any political party – just standing to promote ‘common sense’. I am strongly of the opinion that our Parish Council have done themselves (and its parishioners) a great disservice in recent years. The constant ‘shenanigans’ that emanate from the Haskell Centre have plumbed the depths of late – and all the Tit-for-tat childishness really needs to stop. I will be getting a flier printed in the week with my full thoughts, and I do hope that you will do me the service of reading it. Also, any offers of assistance re: giving out fliers would be greatly appreciated. You can e-mail me on purplecurly@hotmail.co.uk I will answer your questions on this forum and hope that the other two candidates will do the same.

Re: By-election - Stephen (23rd Feb 2010 - 18:08:03) I am with Helen M and Marian on this one. I think Dr Judge has exactly the right credentials to be one of our parish councillors. I am sure she would do a great job. I liked what she said in the Herald and she will be getting my vote.

Re: By-election - Phil (23rd Feb 2010 - 19:12:09) Think this time we need 'fresh blood', and no previous links with the PC as it's time to start from a clean slate. Otherwise it's just more of the same, and going over old ground.

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (23rd Feb 2010 - 21:11:36) If you wish to email me privately rather than post on this board publicly; my email address is: manilva15b@yahoo.co.uk Nigel Myall Candidate for the Parish Council elections.

Re: By-election - Editor (25th Feb 2010 - 19:20:46) The following copied from the "Police" thread Re: Police - Nigel Myall (25th Feb 2010 12:23:36) @ Helen Will you be voting? To make democracy work one has to get involved. The defeatist attitude helps neither you, your community or the PC. If the next councillor is elected on a 10% turnout, what sort of mandate is that? A low turnout at elections is to me THE most depressing feature of democracy. If I failed to vote an election then I would have no mandate to complain. Re: Police - liz (25th Feb 2010 13:18:47) Getting a bit off topic - but people don't vote because they don't know enough about the proposed candidates - or even that there is an election. If you don't look at this website or read the Haslemere Herald (and I suspect the majority of the several thousand people in Liphook don't) you would have no idea what is going on. Not quite sure what the solution is. Shared cost/delivery of one flier with all contenders on it? Re: Police - Nigel Myall (25th Feb 2010 13:47:27) @ Liz Great idea! Re: Police - Dawn Hoskins (25th Feb 2010 19:08:46) I'm not so sure that this is the reason for such a terrible turn out. At the last election I delivered to nearly every road in the Parish (thank you to all my helpers!) and although most said they would make the effort - on the day only about a thousand turned up. When we are paying thousands of pounds to 'numerous' officials to sit all day in TWO (unnecessary) different rooms in Liphook village - it makes you a bit sick to think about it. I think the real reason is that people have no idea what the P'Council does or even who they are. That is what I want to change - lets get our faces out there so we are approachable. That way we can do what the parishioners want us to do - not what we think they MIGHT want us to do!

Re: By-election - Roger Cooper (25th Feb 2010 - 19:34:23) Tnanks Nigel for your interest in our community. But is there not a wee conflict of interest with you working for Sainsbury's? There is much talk of revitalising the 'New Town' and creating shopping diversity. How can you please everyone?

Re: By-election - Phil (25th Feb 2010 - 20:29:54) Just curious, so searched a few on-line political text-books to refresh my memory as to what the main empirical (i.e. established through appropriate audits) reasons were for general voter apathy. Am paraphrasing here, but they were: 1. People only vote when they are interested and motivated to do so 2. Most people don't know who their (in this case, will need to substitute) Parish Councillors are 3. Most people don't know what the (again, substituting - don't shoot me!) Parish Council does (or achieves) 4. They don't see what difference it will have on their lives I personally suspect the above correlates in broad terms with the PC elections, traditional low-turnout and the fairly rapid fading of pre-election promises into just 'more of the same'. Something for all the hopefuls to think about - and convince us of otherwise. Personally I won't be voting as an objection of one, but that's my free choice. But I do vote at every election about PC level - just not interested in PC and below!

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (25th Feb 2010 - 22:28:23) @ Roger All councillors have to declare an interest on any matter discussed by the Parish Council. If there is a conflict then said councillor(s) cannot vote on that matter. I feel perfectly qualified to discuss and vote on any parish matter that has no interest to Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd. If I felt there was even a potential conflict of interest on a council matter I would declare it and offer to withdraw from that meeting. The same of course applies to any and all other councillors and candidates.

Re: By-election - Helen (25th Feb 2010 - 22:40:40) nigel - thanks for asking if i will be voting - yes i intend to if only so i can feel like i tried. But to be honest - yes i do feel defeated. I am an involved member of the community who has tried to make changes within the village to better the quality of life. I have unfortunately found that the Parish Council have been UTTERLY ineffectual. I am not going into details but simply wanted to share my view about the PC on my previous thread. And whilst i would love to get involved and even stand for the PC IF i thought i could make a difference i'm afraid that from what i see it is far too broken and i am far too busy looking after 3 kids under 6 to be banging my head against a brick wall (and yes i am saying the PC is a brick wall). The second i have more confidence in the PC to be a proactive and approchable council i'll let you know.....

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (25th Feb 2010 - 23:01:34) @ Phil Thank you at least for going out and doing some research; it shows that perhaps you mave more interest in the matter than you thought. Addressing the reasons for voter apathy, I'm quite happy to accept your paraphrasing. To tackle each one in turn: 1. Interest. This is precisely why political parties and governments engage in publicity - to maintain interest in politics. Sometimes even a "bad" story serves this purpose as controversy gets people talking about politics. The Parish Council's problem is that (as far as I know) they are not run by any party (so no interest there) and there is precious little controversy (recent events excepted). 2. Ignorance of their representatives. Most people don't even know who their MP is; this doesn't stop them voting on party lines (so see 1. above as well). 3. Ignorance of the council powers. Again most people don't know what powers their MP (or even government) has. Many assume (wrongly) that they can pass any law they feel fit. 4. They don't see what difference it will have on their lives; and again, this is also true at a national level. Speaking to people I find that the level of ignorance about government powers increases as you go down the scale from national to local. This could explain lower voter turnouts at local level. My research also shows that voter turnout is a reflection of what I call "empowerment". If voters feel they CAN achieve something by voting, then they will do so, and vice versa. This could explain the steady fall in turnout in elections at all levels as parties and candidates are perceived as being "the same" and therefore although the party/representative might change the policy would not. It this this aspect that is more powerful at a local level - individual voters are far more likely to achieve a "result". Your "more of the same" point I would include in this point. I do earnestly hope you will vote - the only wasted vote is one that is not cast.

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (26th Feb 2010 - 00:20:54) My thanks to all those contributing to Talkback. We might together reach the dizzy influential heights reported in this story: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/8535187.stm

Re: By-election - Eneida (26th Feb 2010 - 10:02:26) Hi Nyall, I'm curious to know why you've reached the decision that "there is precious little controvercy in the Parish Council, recent events excepted"!! Granted I've only lived in Liphook for 9 years, but it seems to me, from reading newspapers and this site, that there's been nothing but 'controversies' during this time!! This is one of the main reasons people here are disillusioned with voting IMO....they're tired of all the squabbling and playground behaviour that goes on...and you seem to have entirely missed this point!! I also think you're being a little bit naive to think 'party politics' aren't involved at all.... I do admire your enthusiasm and your belief that you could make a difference, if elected,,,,,unfortunately I've heard all this before and been disappointed. Good luck to you and Dawn anyway :) On a slightly different point...I would have liked to hear what Dr. Judge had to say about becoming a Liphook Councillor. I believe her manifesto was printed in the Haselmere Herald (?) Unfortunately, I don't always buy the local papers so missed it. It would be nice if she could post her manifesto here....if she's aware that Liphook.co exists, of course.... Eneida

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (26th Feb 2010 - 12:42:05) @ Eneida I reached the opinion that there is little controversy in the Parish Council (until recently) based on the observation that few people were talking about it, regardless of what might have been reported. Talkback is a site frequented largely by those who already have an interest in council goings-on, so by definition there will more controversy here than elsewhere. Newspapers of course need controversy to sell, reporting style is everything. I have not commented on the reported behaviour of the council or councillors since it is all at least secondhand. Such behaviour may be true; then again it may not. It is my position (on this issue) not to comment on something I have not directly witnessed. I can tell you that I try to conduct myself in a professional and courteous manner at all times. That might sound very old-fashioned, but those are (and always have been) my personal values. I am not evading your point, I merely refuse to comment. I have heard precious little about party politics in Liphook and Bramshott. Again, I'm going on what is said to me, not what is reported. I do hope your admiration will be translated into a vote for the candidate of your choice. Anyone can make a difference - we will hopefully be judged on our performance. We all suffer disappointments in our life; it's what we do afterwards that makes the difference. All the candidates' manifestos were printed in last week's Liphook Herald on the front page. An electronic copy is available on the Herald website (50 pence to access).

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (26th Feb 2010 - 13:01:18) Manifestos can be seen here: www.facebook.com/...

Re: By-election - Eneida (26th Feb 2010 - 17:30:16) Hi Nigel, Thank you for your reply and BTW I do apologise for 'amalgamating' your names in my last post!! Well, if in your experience, few people in Liphook in general, not just on this site, were concerned about controversies in the Parish Council until recently, I take it that "Scouts & Guides", for instance, won't mean anything to you?? It's very old history now, of course, but perhaps you should look it up and there's a very good search facility on this site which is free!! Does it really cost 50p to access the Herald's website?....they must have a very high opinion of themselves LOL....

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (26th Feb 2010 - 22:15:19) @ Eneida Firstly; apology accepted. It happens a lot and I don't expect it to end anytime soon. I did not include the people posting on this site; they are, in my experience far more involved, vocal and posess longer memories than the public at large. I read with some interest some of the exchanges on this forum over the scouts and guides facilities at the Millenium Hall. However, this is as you say, old history now. 50 pence is the same as the price of the paper iteslf. Can we please move on to what concerns parishioners here and now; some regeneration of the Newtown area, the state of footpaths and byways, etc, etc.

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (2nd Mar 2010 - 07:33:23) I've noticed something else about the by-election which I will comment on, which has been in the news recently - expenses. I don't know how much by the way of campaign expenses each candidate can claim, but my claim from the public purse will be precisely zero, nil, nada. Nigel Myall

Re: By-election - sue W (2nd Mar 2010 - 08:37:24) Nigel Don’t mean to be a party pooper - but the 'lets get to the important issues - re-generations of Newtown area' Has been on the agenda of many and been in a lot manifestos over a number of years. Even the latest recruit - Mr Austin-Olsen had this as one of his major areas of concern. Has it changed? not to my knowledge. These areas featured high on the village survey for change; there have been a number of public comments not only on this site, a lot of talk in general, from a few Councillors etc, but apart from the efforts of some businesses to publicise the area exists, and Liphook in Bloom doing a fantastic job for the few months they can - there is nothing else. Talk is cheap - action is needed. What are your proposals? Sue

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (2nd Mar 2010 - 22:17:58) Dear Sue, The Newtown area has seen a decline over many years, since the closure of the Jet garage, probably before. However, there has been some development, most notably the Beaver industrial estate opposite Newtown Road. This has changed the balance towards a more industrial area. What would you have me do in my current position? Any proposals I could make now would have to pass the tests of feasability and affordability. Remember that the power of planning permissions rests with EHDC, not the parish council, who can only give an opinion. I've posted elsewhere what powers parish councils do have, and £20,000 of General spending is not going to go very far (and would impact other expenditure by the council). I'm far rather interesting in listening to what you propose. It is after all, your views I should be representing, not my own. After all the council should (mainly) be in the business of translating residents aspirations into reality, not trying to lead public opinion into following their ambitions. Nigel Myall

Re: By-election - liz (3rd Mar 2010 - 08:29:49) Nigel The Beaver industrial estate has been there for donkey's years.

Re: By-election - Sue w (3rd Mar 2010 - 08:43:10) Nigel thanks for your reply - it is not my views that need to be taken on board - they are basically the same as others that have made comments here,in the past, in the survey and in general. You must already have some ideas, otherwise you would not have expressed the need in your previous thread, along with Dawn, Mr Austin-Olsen and before. Your the one wanting peoples vote - its your opinions that count not mine. If you are the victor - take some time and talk to all those who trade/reside there. And listen to the problems that our fellow traders face in other areas. Particularly those that are in little know trading areas. Did you know, there is a grant available from the EHDC for specific purposes of 'window dressing' empty shops etc? - Good to see our Parish are using this to its full advantage. Not just in 'Newtown' there are empty premises in the Square too. Sue

Re: By-election result - Tom Horwood EHDC (11th Mar 2010 - 23:24:01) The by-election for Bramshott and Liphook Parish Council was held today. Sangita Judge was elected to the parish council. The results were: Sangita Judge - 617 votes Dawn Hoskins - 374 votes Nigel Myall - 214 votes Turnout was 19%, up from 17% at this parish's last by-election.

Re: By-election - Neil (12th Mar 2010 - 09:02:50) Nice result Sangita Judge well-done

Re: By-election - Nigel Myall (12th Mar 2010 - 09:14:43) Thank you to all who voted; not just for me. I was frankly appalled at the turnout; it appears that less than one in five of you have any interest in local democracy - shame! I would like to hear from Doctor Judge on this forum what she proposes to do now she has been elected. Finally, I'm not giving up. I'll be back at the next election! Nigel Myall

Re: By-election - Eneida (12th Mar 2010 - 09:26:48) I'll admit straight away that maths is not my best subject...but if the bye-election cost about £9K to stage and there were a total of 1205 votes, does that mean that each vote cost £746.88...WOW [editor - your not wrong there - maths isn't your strongest point! It works out at £7.47 per person that voted]

Re: By-election - Eneida (12th Mar 2010 - 09:43:20) LOL...I got my . in the wrong place....well that makes me feel a lot better....£7.47 per vote sounds much more reasonable!!

Re: By-election - bill mouland (12th Mar 2010 - 11:52:47) Oh dear, another false Dawn. Never mind. At least Dr Judge will be able to administer sticking plasters and psychiatric help to the warring factions at the council. PS. Barbara never did answer Neil's perfectly simple question about who has been co-opted onto the council under what she calls an 'unsafe method.' Perhaps that's because she was one of four people co-opted in June, 2007. If it was unsafe, perhaps she should resign and then all those people who keep petitioning for by-elections could ask for another one. I'm sure Dawn would be up for it.

Re: By-election - Dawn Hoskins (15th Mar 2010 - 10:35:52) Yep, I'd be up for it Bill! I will continue to stand whenever there is a vacancy. I will call myself 'Anti False' Dawn I think. 'False' is a personality trait that I abhor in humans generally. Why call it a vertical digging implement when it is clearly a spade. I agree that it is great news to have another woman on the council and also a Doctor. Although I think it a shame that she has chosen not to use this public forum. I did not get the local paper or a flier so I do not know what her manifesto was. When those present start to have 'hissy fits' she can make a mental note and prescribe them some anti-madness / anti-misogynist / anti-despot tablets!!!!!!!

Re: By-election - barbara (15th Mar 2010 - 16:32:49) Thank you Bill- I did actually answer the question if you check but you obvuously found the answer earlier than me. In respect of elections, if more than ten people write in and request one, there is always an election so me resigning would not make any difference. I am sure you are astutely aware of all legislation regarding Parish Councils- and surely as your closest neighbour is John Tough, who was Chairman up until last year, you could surely find all you need to know from him?? I suspect you use this site to encourage/ elicit stories which you can then sell to the Torygraph or whoever will buy them..

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