does a potential councillor be present for co option

Question

Good afternoon

We have a resident who would like to be co opt onto our parish council.  They meet all the necessary criteria but will not be available for next meeting in Sept.There are no other applicants for 3 vacancies.

Can they be co opted without being present?

Thanks
Ann

Answer 1

Legally I think there's nothing to prevent that but they wouldn't be able to take up their place on the council without or before signing an declaration of acceptance of office first.  If you have a co-option policy (always to be recommended) it may be specified there or in your standing orders.  Our co-option policy specifically requires candidates for co-option to be present at the meeting at which they are co-opted so that councillors can ask questions if/when they consider the application.  We have deferred a decision on a co-option if the candidate isn't able to attend in the past.

Answer 2

Co-option is an informal process so it is up to your council to decide.  The only legislation surrounding co-option is the requirement to advertise for a by-election.  Once this notice period has passed, it is up to the council to fill the vacancies.  If this candidate is the only one for 3 vacancies, you might want to suggest waiting until they can attend - unless you are expecting a rush of interest?