Is commenting on a County Council initiative a conflict of interests?

[ILoveJoeBrown]

I'm employed by our local Borough Council [not in a highways-related department]. I also live in the same town. Our local County Council has imposed a trial highways scheme which I'm affected by, as a private individual living in the area of the scheme.

I'm never sure if commenting on a County scheme as a private individual conflicts with my role as a Council Officer for the Borough [NOT the County]? Does anyone know the legalities please?

If you are personally affected by a tax-funded project then in our democratic society you have a right to comment on said project, through the correct official channels, eg the consultation phase of the project.

As an employee of the Borough, you are doing nothing to bring your employer into disrepute by factually stating your opinion on the scheme esp. if you are personally affected.

You should check in your Employment Contract and Handbook to ensure there is nothing stated to the contrary.

What you would be ill advised to do is go onto any local or national social media channels eg Facebook groups and rant about what a crap project the scheme is, That could get you into hot water, but doing anything through official channels factually and politely, is perfectly acceptable.

Responding privately to a consultation or something that affects you as a resident is one thing - doing it on social media is another.

Respond privately and be clear that you are responding as a private individual and not as a Borough Council officer.

Don't use your work e-mail.

If it is deemed a conflict of interests, that will be stated in a policy or a clause in your contract. I doubt it, but that’s where you should look.

I'd respond through the official channel using private email & telephone number if also required (not the work one) and respond 'As a resident of x road ....' No need to mention who you work for.

All good advice but you must look at your terms and conditions of employment. Given it is local govt there must be something available on-line for your borough. YOu may have to let your line mgr know or something like that. Check first. It will cost you nothing.

I work for a county council and would absolutely (privately) comment on a council-imposed highways scheme if it affected me as a resident. I would just use my personal email.