This week has been dominated by the election, and it has been a privilege to spend time out and about across Argyll and Bute visiting polling stations and meeting colleagues supporting the process. I always find these visits grounding.
Many voters won’t realise just how much planning, logistics and behind the scenes work goes into to making sure that the election runs smoothly. The care and professionalism taken by everyone involved means that our communities can trust in the results announced later today. What struck me most was the calm confidence people brought to their roles – welcoming voters, solving problems as they arose, and ensuring everything ran smoothly and with integrity.
Elections don’t simply “happen”. They rely on people stepping forward, often on top of already busy day jobs, to support one of the most important civic responsibilities we carry as a council. I saw first‑hand how seriously colleagues take that responsibility, and I couldn’t have been prouder of how we were represented in communities right across the area.
I’m very conscious that this work involves long days, early starts, late finishes and – in our geography – significant travel. While polling station colleagues are the most visible part of the operation, I also want to recognise the many people working behind the scenes in elections, ICT, facilities, transport, communications and corporate services, as well as those supporting the count. Each role matters as much as the next.
Whatever the make‑up of the new government, our role as officers remains the same: to serve our communities, to support our elected members, and to provide clear, impartial advice on what national policy priorities, legislative change or funding decisions may mean for local government and for Argyll and Bute in particular. Work is already under way to consider the potential implications and to ensure we are well‑prepared, informed and ready to respond constructively.
Periods like this are a reminder of the importance of strong, values‑led public service. The trust placed in local government – whether on polling day or in the months that follow – depends on professionalism, integrity and a clear focus on our purpose. This week, you demonstrated all of that in abundance.
My sincere thanks to everyone involved in delivering the election, whether visible on the day or supporting quietly from behind the scenes.
Enjoy your weekend.
Pippa
Pippa Milne
Chief Executive
Photo: Kevin McGlynn
