can a candidate be co-opted to the parish council in their absence if they are not able to be at the meeting

Question

Hi,

Our parish council has five councillors following an uncontested election in May. There are currently six vacancies on the council. Two candidates have completed their Expression of Interest forms but will be away for the parish council meeting when co-options will be considered. Both have previously been parish councillors on the council. Is there any legal reason why the candidates could not be considered for co-option in their absence ?

Many thanks.

Answer 1

It might be worth checking your co-option policy to see what it says but I don't believe there is a legal reason not to co-opt if the individual has indicated their willingness to join.  However, my own council doesn't co-opt if the individual isn't there but will defer the co-option to the next meeting if necessary.  Anyone who is co-opted will need to sign a declaration of acceptance of office before attending a meeting.