GENERAL
Local elections were held in May 2003. Nine candidates stood for the eight places on the Parish Council. Seven existing councillors were re-elected and Dick Neil, councillor since 1991, was narrowly defeated by new member Mark Jarrad.
Sadly, John Nichols, a Parish Councillor for 37 years, died in January 2004. His knowledge of the village and parish, his interest in and support for local groups and his advice to the Parish Council have been invaluable. He will be greatly missed.
John Pringle, our Parish Clerk, has been seriously ill and following a major operation he will be receiving further treatment for sometime. However, John has remained at work and the full support of members has ensured that council business has continued.
Common Ranger Paul Hewetson resigned in May 2003. Clive Hirst was temporarily appointed in his place and was confirmed in post in October following a 6 month trial period.
Our Village Warden, Arthur Hirst, has been very busy throughout the year and his conscientious work has kept the village looking tidy and attractive. A ‘new’ secondhand van was purchased in February 2004 to replace the first vehicle which had become irreparable. The parish van enables our Village Warden to carry equipment to all parts of the parish and to do his job far more effectively and efficiently.
The council adopted The Good Councillors Guide as a guide to best practice.
Members attended Borough/Parish Liaison meetings and the clerk attended liaison meetings with Dacorum Borough Council officers, representing Chipperfield.
Health Services Twenty residents attended a public meeting held by Dacorum Primary Care Trust in the Parish Room on 29 May 2003 following the publication of their consultative document “Investing in Your Health”. Subsequently the Parish Council responded to the consultation supporting the proposal for a new hospital to be built in Hatfield but urging the retention of an acute unit at Hemel Hempstead.
Public Phonebox Unfortunately the Parish Council have been unable to persuade BT to retain the box in Scatterdells Lane which is to be removed due to lack of use.
FINANCE &