AFTER last year’s general election, this May will see voters across England choosing who represents them in local government.
Elections take place on May 5 for seats on Luton Borough Council, with all 48 seats across Luton’s 19 wards up for grabs.
Luton Borough Council says taking part in the elections means voters will have a chance to influence the way the town will be run for the next four years.
A spokesman said: “As usual, it is expected that there will be a large number of candidates, not only from the mainstream political parties but also from smaller political groups and also independents.”
On the same day, a national referendum will take place on changes to Britain’s voting system.
To be able to vote in the elections, and in the national referendum, residents need to be on the Register of Electors for the town.
To find out if you are registered, call 01582 513080 or email electoralservices@luton.gov.uk
If you are not registered, the council will send you a form that you will need to complete and return by 5pm on April 14.
If you can’t get to the polling station on 5 May, you can apply for a postal vote. All you have to do is to cast your vote on the ballot paper provided, complete the accompanying paperwork and post the envelope and its contents back to the Town Hall.
To apply for postal voting, use the contact details above.
If the thought of exercising your democratic rights makes you want to get more involved in local politics, you can find out all about becoming a councillor at an information session the council is holding next week.
On Tuesday, March 1, anyone thinking of standing as a candidate this year can go along to the Town Hall to find out about the nomination process, who may or may not stand as a candidate, responsibilities if elected, commitment requirements and allowances.
The session starts at 7pm in the council chamber, and anyone wishing to attend should contact John Harper on 01582 546045 or email john.harper@luton.gov.uk before the event.
More information is also available online at www.beacouncillor.org.uk/east