Argyll and Bute Council is holding a by-election in Ward 2, Kintyre and the Islands, following the sad passing of Councillor John McAlpine.
Accordingly as the Returning Officer for Argyll and Bute, I have made arrangements for the Notice of Election to be published on Monday 15th August 2022. This will be available on the council’s dedicated Elections web page.
Polling Day will be Thursday 29th September 2022 – the council meeting scheduled for that day will also go ahead as planned.
Voters who are registered in the Kintyre and the Islands ward only will be eligible to vote, and will be asked to elect one councillor to fill the current vacancy.
The pre-election period starts on Monday following the publication of the Notice and there are particular requirements and restrictions for council staff during this time. This is to ensure that no individual or political party standing for election can make use of council resources – including staff – for their own political purposes.
It is important that employees are familiar with all issues associated with the pre-election period. The council has drawn up this document, Pre-Election Guidelines for Staff, for those requiring more information.
Any employee who is unsure whether something which they have been asked to do is political, or could be interpreted as such, should refer the matter to their line manager and ultimately, if necessary, their Head of Service or Executive Director.
It is possible that you may be asked questions about the election in the course of your work. Information will be available on the Hub to help you answer or direct any queries that you or anyone else have.
The council’s Elections Team is also available to assist and can be contacted on 01546 603264 or elections@argyll-bute.gov.uk
Below are some useful web links to find out more about elections and voting:
www.gov.uk/register-to-vote – online voter registration
www.electoralcommission.org.uk – the independent body which oversees elections in the UK and where you can find out information about all aspects of elections and voting.
Issued on behalf of Pippa Milne, Returning Officer
Friday 12th August 2022
