Low response to mayoral consultation

Reigate and Banstead may soon have its own Boris Johnson in charge.

The new figurehead for Reigate and Banstead would have wide-ranging powers and be directly elected by the public, rather than being chosen by the political party with the most seats.

Officers at the council wrote to residents associations and political parties last month asking for their views, and residents can express their opinion on the council website until the consultation ends on February 26.

But despite the significant impact an elected mayor could have on the region, the council has not yet been inundated by responses.

In the alternative to using the mayoral system, the council could instead remain being run by a council-appointed leader with extended powers.

A spokesman said: "So far we have had nine responses to the consultation directly from stakeholders and community groups, and fewer than ten via the website.

"If the Council opts for the Mayoral option then notice of the election will be given and candidates can come forward as part of the nomination process, as with all types of election."

There is no obligation for an elected mayor to belong to any political party, and members of the public would be entitled to stand.

The council currently comprises 51 councillors who are elected by the residents of their area.

Each year the council appoints the Leader and the Executive Cabinet.

But under the new models, a mayor would hold responsibility for all Executive functions, and be elected for a four year term. And it is the mayor who would appoint councillors to a cabinet.

Over in Lewisham, elected mayor Sir Steve Bullock told The Mirror: "My experience of serving as an elected mayor for almost eight years has convinced me that this is more open and effective way of running things. In Lewisham everyone knows where the buck stops – with the mayor."

The results of the consultation will be reported in April and the proposed option presented to full Council before December, 31, for formal approval and adoption with effect from May 2011.

A spokesman for Tandridge District Council said it had no plans to implement an elected mayor system.