Resignation of SNP councillor triggers Scottish Borders Council by-election
Last updated 14th Nov 2023
The resignation of an SNP councillor has triggered plans for a by-election at Scottish Borders Council.
Details of Pam Brown's decision to quit her seat - covering Jedburgh and District - only emerged in papers being presented to next week's meeting of the Conservative-led local authority.
Councillors are being recommended to approve plans for a ballot to find a replacement early in the New Year.
It's due to be held on February 22nd, 2024, with an electronic count of votes cast to take place from 10am the following morning.
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According to the report, the costs will be met from existing Council budgets and are not expected to exceed £50,000.
It goes on: "There will be 15 polling stations located at St Boswells Village Hall (2 stations), Maxton Village Hall, Roxburgh Village Hall, Heiton Village Hall, Ancrum Village Hall, Lothian Hall, Crailing, Eckford Village Hall, Lanton Village Hall, Town Hall, Jedburgh (4 stations), Oxnam Village Hall and Edgerston Village Hall."
Councillor Brown's resignation was tendered on November 2nd and comes into effect on November 23rd.
A spokesperson for the SNP group on the council said: "Unfortunately Pam has taken the decision to step down from her role as a councillor for health reasons.
"We are sad to see her go but understand her decision and wish her all the best."
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Councillor Brown, who chaired the Cheviot Area Partnership, was elected to represent the Jedburgh and District ward in May 2022, alongside two Conservative councillors - Scott Hamilton and Sandy Scott.
In a statement released to Greatest Hits Radio, she said: "I have regrettably decided to resign as a Councillor for Jedburgh & District. This decision has not been taken lightly, but I have several health issues that prevent me from carrying out the full range of duties.
"I would like to thank SBC colleagues for all their support since I was elected. I would also like to thank the many constituents I have met, the Community Councils and the various committees that I have been involved with."
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