This week, many colleagues and members across Argyll and Bute will have been saddened to hear of the death of former Councillor, Donnie MacMillan. Donnie was, of course, a familiar and much-loved figure in Lochgilphead and beyond, and someone whose service to our communities spanned almost four decades.
Donnie’s contribution to public life was extraordinary. As an independent councillor, he represented Mid Argyll until May 2022, aged ninety-four. He served through significant changes in local government, from the days of Strathclyde Regional Council and Argyll and Bute District Council to the current council, and he did so with a quiet determination and a strong sense of duty. It was fitting that he was awarded the Freedom of Argyll and Bute in recognition of that lifetime of service.
For those of us who worked alongside Donnie, what stands out most is not just the length of his service, but the way in which he approached it. He was grounded in his community, visible, accessible, and always focused on making a difference to people’s everyday lives. He understood that local government is, at its heart, about relationships, trust, and collective effort.
Moments like this prompt me to reflect on the importance of the partnership between elected members and officers. Our roles are distinct, but our purpose is shared. Members bring the democratic voice of the communities they serve; officers bring professional expertise and continuity. When that relationship works well—as it did with Donnie—it creates the conditions for better decisions, stronger services, and more resilient communities.
None of what we achieve is the work of individuals alone. It is the result of people working together over many years—members, officers, partners, and communities themselves—often in challenging circumstances, but with a shared commitment to place and people. This is what makes local government special.
My thoughts are with Donnie’s family, friends, and all those who knew him.
Pippa
Pippa Milne
Chief Executive
