Hello everyone,

Following on from yesterday's disappointing response from the Parish Council I thought it helpful to provide you with a draft complaint to save you some precious time.

Please send your emails to: clerk@eastington-pc.gov.uk AND to monitoring.officer@stroud.gov.uk

I am writing to make a formal complaint, in the very strongest terms, regarding the decision of the Parish Council not to allow an agenda item to hear the petition organised by Alexander Wills, and subsequently signed by myself.

I believe this petition is a significant representation of the residents and its concerns about the precept. The petition garnered 140 signatures, demonstrating the widespread support for a corrective reduction in the 25/26 precept.

I was dismayed to learn that the petition was denied a hearing and deeply troubled by this turn of events, as it suggests a lack of willingness to consider the voices of the Eastington residents on this important issue. I consider EPC's reasons for refusing an agenda item are invalid as;

• Alexander complied with EPC's communications policy, specifically; "If a Parishioner wishes a matter to be formally discussed at a Parish Council meeting, then the Parish Clerk must be notified in writing at least 7 days prior to the meeting to enable the item to be placed on the Agenda." The request was submitted on 27th June.
• EPC have stated that "Councillors need more information" yet have not requested any since the 27th June. This is ample time.

I urge you to reconsider your decision and allow a hearing for this petition. A fair and open discussion on this matter is essential to maintaining trust in the Parish Council.

I believe that open communication and a willingness to listen to all sides are essential for a healthy and functioning Parish Council. I look forward to your positive response to this complaint.

Sincerely,