Lively debate triggered by second douzaine surgery

Deputy Lee Van Katwyk, Douzenier Anne Setters and PC Alex Moore of the Neighbourhood Police Team

What was described as a small but attentive audience took the opportunity to raise parish matters with the panel in an informal setting at the Vale Douzaine rooms, where they were able directly to question Deputy Van Katwyk, who lives in the parish, and raised topics with the police representative and the douzaine itself.

The initiative is a pilot to see if parishioners like the additional engagement with Vale officials and believe it adds value for them.

Among the items raised were the problems caused by vehicles parking on small Vale roads (highlighted here) and parish rates.

That was particularly topical because the bills have been sent out and reflect the need for the douzaine to raise more than £700,000 this year to meet parochial and church needs. Although a large sum, £250,000 is needed for direct administrative and related costs. The bulk, more than £456,000, is required for household refuse removal, the costs of which are dictated by the States and contractor fees. A breakdown of this year's expenditure can be found here.

Wider issues were considered as well. Parishioners took the opportunity to discuss island-wide voting with Deputy Van Katwyk, given the imminent by-election, and the recent news of the States' IT contract that was cancelled with the loss of £20m. but with nothing to show for it.

• The next surgery will be held at 10am on 16th May at the Vale Douzaine. Guests will be announced later.