A vacancy has opened for a new councillor to join Frome Town Council following the resignation of Max Wide.
Max, who has represented Park Ward since 2022, is stepping down from the council for personal reasons, creating a vacancy ahead of the next full town council election in 2027.
During his time as a councillor, Max supported Frome Town Council through devolution, helping to shape a prospectus for Frome and guiding the council through the transition. He was also instrumental in establishing the Vale of Frome Local Community Network, which he went on to chair.
Max said, “I have taken the difficult decision to step down from the town council. The demands of my job, particularly during this period of significant change in local government, have meant more travel with less time in Frome, and I want to focus my efforts where I can have the most impact.
“It has been a privilege to serve the people of Park Ward and to work alongside councillors, staff and community groups who care deeply about Frome. I’ve especially valued supporting the development of the Local Community Network, where I hope my expertise can continue to be of real value. I’m also proud to have led the work on the prospectus for devolution and the broader devolution discussions, which I believe offer Frome a real opportunity to shape services more locally and strengthen community decision-making. I know the town council, the Local Community Network and partners across the area will continue to take this work forward and deliver great things for the town.”
Due to Max’s resignation, there is now a vacant seat on Frome Town Council for Park Ward.
If 10 people who live in Park Ward write to Somerset Council asking for an election within 14 days, by 2nd December, an election will be held to choose a new councillor. Submissions should be sent to: Chief Executive, Electoral Services, Somerset Council, County Hall, The Crescent, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY.
If fewer than 10 people request an election by that date, the town council will co-opt someone to fill the vacancy instead.
Chair and leader of Frome Town Council, Fiona Barrows, said, “On behalf of all councillors, I’d like to thank Max for the contribution he has made to the council over the last three and a half years. He has brought valuable expertise and experience in local government. We are sad to lose him but understand his reasons and wish him well.”
Download the vacancy information at https://shorturl.at/6ttZP
