Taunton Deane should wait to make a decision on merger with West Somerset District Council and on other available options until September 2016. A decision should be made on the same day as West Somerset Council to ensure that the joint process which started in March 2016 continues and is shared with West Somerset District Council and any other council that wishes to become involved.
Cllr. Steve Ross, Independent, Taunton Deane District Council
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Why is this important?
Both councils were making decisions on merger using the same process.
A merger decision was to be made by both councils on 26th July 2016.
At the last minute and only after Taunton Deane's meeting to discuss merger was called, West Somerset decided to pause until September 2016.
Despite requests for a similar pause the leader of Taunton Deane has decided to go ahead regardless.
After calling the Taunton Deane meeting the Leader of Taunton Deane has invited Sedgemoor District Council to be involved as well.
Taunton Deane councillors are being asked to vote on a merger without knowing:
1. whether West Somerset are equally committed to merger;
2.why West Somerset are delaying and
3.without knowing if Sedgemoor District Council will be involved.
How it will be delivered
This petition will be sent to Taunton Deane as soon as possible by email to Taunton Deane. If accepted a debate will be held at Taunton Deane's meeting on 26th July 2016. I am independent of any political party.This is a local issue impacting local people and the petition is open to anyone to sign, irrespective of political affiliations or belief. .
