Elections and Local Authorities: The important, the obscure, weird and the wonderful

In light of the General Election in July, one crucial aspect of elections and government that is often overlooked is the role of the Returning Officer. This is just one position within the vast remit of Local Authorities- a remit that often extends to the obscure and wonderful of our communities.

The role of Returning Officer is often filled by a high sheriff or mayor who bears the responsibility of the effective administration of a whole election. They are most renowned for their role in announcing the results of elections in the UK, the importance of which comes with significant responsibilities and therefore significant pressures. From the printing of ballot papers to the fair counting of votes and the result declaration, the responsibility of these individuals, enshrined in law, is huge so I would like to thank them for all of their efforts in ensuring that our democracy runs effectively and all of our voices are represented.

This also provides a timely reminder to the wide-spanning range and reach of Local Authorities in performing many other roles, which we often overlook- from the macro to the micro. At a larger scale, local governments’ assets often hold large commercial and cultural significance. For example, the famous St James’ Park Stadium in Newcastle is owned by the city council, with rents going from the club to the council for the 60,000 capacity stadium. Moreover, the City of London Corporation owns the Barbican, the iconic architectural and performing arts hub, home to the London Symphony Orchestra. The position of councils in maintaining our cultural heritage must not be underestimated.

Many of the smaller and more obscure things that we take for granted are also administered by Local Councils. In July, the first official ‘Hedgehogs Crossing’ sign was erected in Kingston-upon-Thames. Dropped kerb applications and turquoise “friendly monster” bins in Gloucester city centre which promote recycling are all underappreciated aspects of Local Government, demonstrating how steps forward can be made by Local Councils in their efforts to foster thriving local communities.

Yet with such a large remit, and the new Labour Government acknowledging the important role of  Local Government in  its plan for economic growth, the growing diversity of roles will require more diverse skillsets and expertise. It is our job at Odgers to identify such talent.

‘Porosity’ is a topic about which I have written a lot recently- this being the flowing of talent into government from other sectors and vice versa. The nature of Local Authorities as such diverse organisations with increasing powers will help to create a new generation of public leaders with a range of experience and skill. I would encourage those from other sectors to get involved in local affairs, for their skills could enable them to be dynamic public leaders. Equally, for other sectors to appreciate the talent pool of experience, capability and ingenuity of Local Government leaders and executives.

With our communities more diverse than ever, it is important that we commend Local Authorities in their efforts to nourish a sense of community, which we seem to be in need of, given the events of recent weeks. But our growing communities will need a new generation of public leaders to guide us through and I firmly believe that we should cast our view further when seeking such talent.

If you would like to find out more about what Local Authorities do and how Odgers seeks and promotes this talent, please do get in touch.