Midsomer Norton Town Council’s December meeting saw a brand new member voted on to fill a vacancy left by the resignation of Luke Barnes.

The position was applied for by six eligible members of the community, though only four could attend the meeting. The successful candidate was Michael Rich, a Midsomer Norton resident of over 40 years, although the decision was not unanimous. Due to only eight existing members of the council attending the meeting, the secret ballot vote was, on two occasions, met with a four/four split, resulting in the Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Cllr Paul Myers (Conservative, Redfield) having to cast the deciding vote, at the decision and insistence of the Town Clerk.

The four attending candidates were given thirty seconds to speak before the Council, highlighting the attributes they possessed and the benefits they believed they would have for the town. Paul Towler, who could not attend the meeting, sent his application in a letter, where he discussed Midsomer Norton’s strong cultural identity with local arts and music, which was read out by Cllr Myers.

The remaining four candidates were Peter Mocock, Michael Moxham, Michael Rich and Richard West. Successful candidate, Michael Rich, addressed the council on a number of issues he felt needed more attention, such as road maintenance and crime.

Michael Moxham, who is currently working with the Council on helping the town to become more accessible for those with disabilities, informed councillors of his experience with planning and development, as well as an insight into life with a

disability in the local area.

Final candidate, Richard West (candidates were given the chance to speak in alphabetical order of surname), discussed his unique skillset that had enabled him to achieve the role of Inspector in the Police Force, before starting his own business, seven years ago. Richard had also served as a governor for Norton Hill and Somervale School for two decades.

After voting had taken place, the councillors agreed that Michael Rich would be inducted into the Council. Cllr Myers spoke before the other candidates, expressing his regret at only being able to offer one place. He also encouraged the applicants to consider retrying at the next possible opportunity, with an election due in 2019.