About us
Diss Town Council is the first tier of local government for Diss. We represent the community of Diss, and welcome your views on our historic market town.
You can contact us by calling 01379 643848 or emailing towncouncil@diss.gov.uk
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Our vision, mission and values
Our vision
To make Diss a successful, vibrant, attractive town, where people want to live, work and visit.
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Our mission
To support the community and promote Diss as the heart of East Anglia for business, leisure and the arts.
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Our values
We will:
* be an advocate and campaigning voice for the people of Diss
* work to the highest standards of integrity and openness and deliver services to the best of our abilities
* work in partnership with other organisations to improve services and deliver value for money
* be accountable and honour our responsibilities
* be inclusive and supportive of the whole community.
How do we operate?
The Town Council is made up of 14 elected and co-opted councillors and has three committees, and two sub-committees. Councillors are all volunteers from the community who care about Diss and making it the best place it can be!
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Who does what?
As well as councillors, the council employs twelve staff across the administrative and maintenance teams, led by the Town Clerk Sarah Richards. As the Proper Officer of the Council, the Clerk is responsible for ensuring that the instructions of the Council are carried out. The Clerk also advises the Council on the formation of policies, ensures effective decision making and provides strategic direction.
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The council is led by the Town Mayor & Council Leader who are elected each year at the Annual Meeting of Council in May. The Town Mayor chairs Full Council meetings and attends civic engagements and other functions as the Council’s representative. If you would like the Mayor to attend an event, please send an invitation to the Town Council Offices, here.
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The Council Leader is responsible for delivering on the Strategy Plan and works closely with the Town Clerk on a day-to-day basis to help ensure the smooth running of the Council.
Can I come to council meetings?
Of course! Decisions that councillors make often affect the lives of those working and living in the town, so as a council, we have to make sure all decision making is transparent and accountable. All council meetings are open to the public, with an opportunity for you to discuss items on the agenda.
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You will be able to view the agenda at least three clear days before the meeting is held. Check the meetings page to find out more about the different committees, and when they meet.
Can I become a councillor?
To become a councillor, you must be elected or co-opted. Our next election will be in 2023.
We currently have one vacancy for co-option. To be eligible for co-option you must meet the following requirements:
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be over 18, a citizen of the UK, EU or Commonwealth
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be a resident or live within three miles of Diss or live outside of Diss but work within the town boundary
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have a commitment to doing what’s best for the town.
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If this sounds like you, please get in touch.
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