Parishioner wants to settle invoice on behalf of PC.

Question

Our PC commissioned some work on an old tree. Several estimates were sought. The work was carried out and we received the invoice from the successful contractor. Before it was paid, a parishioner generously offered to settle the invoice for us. Would it be ok legally, and appropriate, for them to do this?

Answer 1

The legal position is that Parish Councils are allowed to accept gifts and donations. In this case, as a contract exists between the Council and the contractor, it might be prudent for the Council to settle the invoice and the parishioner to make a gift to the Council, if that is acceptable to them.

Comments

Many thanks, DavetheClerk. Much appreciated.

Answer 2

As stated by Dave the solution to most of the questions are finding a way to enable what you want to happen rather than what you think is defined by box ticking. Parish Councils should be facilitators of the wishes of the community not enforcers of the "rule book"

Comments

Thank you Mentorman, appreciate the advice.