Governance

Parish council governance is the system by which our parish councillors manage the authority they have within Godshill to ensure that the Parish Council serves the community effectively, transparently, and accountably. This involves setting policies, delivering local services, representing resident interests to higher authorities, and ensuring statutory compliance through an Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR). The goal of the Parish Council is to improve quality of life and foster community cohesion in a timely, inclusive, and honest manner. 

This is how we do it.

• Statutory Powers and Duties: Godshill Parish Council is a statutory body with very specific powers and duties granted by law (primarily the Local Government Acts). It is important to note that the Parish Council can only act where there is an express power to do so. 
• Community Representation: A core function is to represent the community's needs and interests to principal local authorities and developers. 
• Service Delivery: Godshill Parish Council can provide ultra-local services, which can include maintaining parks, managing community centres, organising local events, public toilets, plus also services such as street lighting, bus shelters, litter bins (although services like these may be through a third party). 
• Accountability: Governance ensures accountability through various mechanisms:
  • Elections: Parish councillors are normally elected by the electorate (although co-options can take place between elections). 
  • Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR): This is the principal way a parish council accounts to its electorate, confirming everything is in order. 
  • Code of Conduct: Elected councillors must adhere to a Code of Conduct and other policies designed to ensure fair and open governance. 
• Strategic Planning: Parish councils have the power to create and implement policies on a range of issues, from planning and development to environmental protection and community well-being. 
• Community Engagement: Effective governance includes engaging with our community through policies and providing accessible information about our work. 

Key Principles of Parish Council Governance

• Timeliness: Decisions and services should be delivered promptly. 
• Inclusivity: All members of the community should have their voices heard. 
• Openness: The decision-making processes of the council should be transparent. 
• Honesty: The council should operate with integrity. 
• Accountability: The council must be answerable for its actions to the people it serves.