Oakham Town Meeting: A Low-Key Affair
Oakham's annual town meeting took place last night, with Mayor Cllr. Sally-Anne Wadsworth presiding.
The Mayor opened the meeting with a speech thanking residents for their support and highlighting the council's contribution to the Queen's statue, which she believes is attracting more visitors.
The Mayor also announce the Mayors Charity had raised over £2,000 for the Rutland First Community Responders and a cheque will be presented to a representative of the organisation at the AGM, 8th May, Long Row at 6.30pm at the same meeting a new Mayor will be appointed.
However, the turnout was disappointingly low. Public participation was minimal, with only one resident raising a concern. Rutland County Councillor Raymond Payne (Lib Dem) inquired about noise complaints stemming from Cutts Close music events last year. The Mayor confirmed three complaints and announced the council's investment in noise monitoring equipment to mitigate future issues.
As a resident, I offered a different perspective. whilst I hadn't formally complained, I expressed to the Mayor that the music was audible even in nearby Egelton, suggesting that last year might have been the noisiest yet.
With no further matters raised, the Mayor closed the meeting after a brief nine minutes, surprising latecomers.
This low turnout prompts the question: how can Oakham encourage greater participation in future town meetings?
- Venue Change: Consider returning the meeting to Victoria Hall in the town center. A central location might be more accessible for residents.
- Later Start Time: A slightly later start time could accommodate those with work commitments.
- Advance Agenda & Information: Advertising and providing an agenda and relevant information beforehand could spark interest and allow residents to come prepared with questions.
