<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="yes"?><oembed><version><![CDATA[1.0]]></version><provider_name><![CDATA[The unadulterated views of James Courtenay                  Deputy Leader of Southend Council]]></provider_name><provider_url><![CDATA[https://jamescourtenay.wordpress.com]]></provider_url><author_name><![CDATA[jamescourtenay]]></author_name><author_url><![CDATA[https://jamescourtenay.wordpress.com/author/jamescourtenay/]]></author_url><title><![CDATA[The formalities]]></title><type><![CDATA[link]]></type><html><![CDATA[<p>I attended the civic centre today to complete the formalities of becoming a councillor and  for a briefing from the Chief<br />
Exec &amp; others. I must say I was very impressed with the fullness of the explanation<br />
of how things work and the procedures. All of the Officers I have met so far at<br />
the Council seem really keen to help ensure that things get done and make it as<br />
easy as possible for me to help the residents of Blenheim.</p>
<p>Earlier in the day I began organising my future surgery for<br />
residents to be able to come and see me to discuss their concerns, problems and<br />
ideas for Blenheim Park &#8211; more details to follow soon.</p>
<p>The only real shame was that I had to go back to the &#8220;day job&#8221;<br />
for the first time in two and a half weeks after being off for the election<br />
campaign.</p>
<p>&#8220;Mayor Making&#8221; on Thursday where the current Mayor hands<br />
over to the new Mayor. Next update after then.</p>
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