Smith to stand in council election
SENIOR councillor Cecil Smith has confirmed that he will be standing in May’s local government election.
Smith has been a member for Lerwick South since first being elected in 2007, and he has been depute convener and also leader during this time.
The ward will have four seats on offer in the 5 May election. Fellow current councillors Amanda Hawick and John Fraser have already signalled their intention to stand.
Smith said one of the key priorities for the next council will be to get the local authority’s “finances in order”.
“They cannot continue to draw on reserves to balance the books,” he said.
“We have been constantly told that if this continues the reserves will become unsustainable.”
He also said it is important that the council is involved in current and future large developments to “ensure the best outcome for Shetland is achieved”.
Education and the elderly and vulnerable are some of the other key topics for Smith.
He also said “serious consideration has to be given to climate change – and the consequence if ignored”.
Smith described representing Lerwick South as a “privilege and honour” and said he feels he has a “great deal to offer this ward and the community of Shetland”.
On Thursday Shetland Central member Davie Sandison confirmed he would be standing in the election.
Nominations are open for the 5 May council elections until 4pm on 30 March. More information about standing can be found here.
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