No Public Vote on Council Shake Up Rules Lincolnshire’s Leader

They are changing local government quickly. North Kesteven can’t ask people what they think. Lincolnshire might go from ten to two councils. This is the biggest change in fifty years.

Initial plans go to the government next month. They will figure out details by November. Marianne Overton wanted public input. She also wanted a group to guide changes.

The timeline is too short for that, says the leader. They will share details at a meeting next month. Then they submit the plans.

Overton spoke at a council meeting. She said this is a big change. She wondered how they could influence it. Local councils best serve people, she added.

She wants decisions close to residents. This ensures responsiveness and accountability.

Other councillors heard worries from residents. People seemed confused about the future. Richard Wright said they cannot consult the public. The deadlines make it too hard.

They need to submit plans soon. A council meeting is set for March 18. Submission follows on March 21. Wright said there is no time to ask questions.

He doesn’t know what the proposals will be. Meaningless motions are not helpful, he feels.

The ten councils released a joint statement. They said they are working together. Ian Carrington mentioned the tight timeline as well.

The councils collaborate with urgency, he noted. They have different political views.

The government wants larger councils. They should have around 500,000 residents. These councils would handle all services. Greater Lincolnshire has 1.1 million people. This likely means two councils. The government might make exceptions. Valid reasons are needed.