What is a Parish Council

A Parish Council is a separate legal, corporate entity first created by the Local Government Act of 1894 in most rural areas and consolidated by legislation in 1972. It is nothing to do with the Church or the Diocese; nor is it a voluntary and community sector body.

A Parish Council is the lowest tier of local government, and its role is to represent the interests of the local community. Parish Councils have a limited range of powers and functions compared to district, borough or county councils. However, they do play a significant role in community affairs by providing services for the local people.

The Parish Council is funded by the Precept (sum of money), which is collected from all residents through the Council Tax system. They can also raise money from other sources such as rents. The financial conduct of the council is regulated and subject to annual audit.

Mendlesham has 11 Councillors, which is determined by its size and covers Mendlesham and Mendlesham Green. Councillors serve fixed terms, usually four years.

The Council generally meets once a month. All meetings are notified in advance with the agenda published on parish noticeboards and via e-news. Meetings are held in public unless otherwise notified. The minutes from each meeting are published on this website.

You can read more about Local Councils here.

You can read more about Parish Councillors here.