The Parish Clerk is an employee of the Earls Colne Parish Council (ECPC) and line manager for all employees.
The Parish Clerk is the ‘engine’ of an effective Parish Council. They are its principal executive, adviser, the Responsible Financial Officer and Proper Officer. They are responsible for the administration of its financial affairs, with specific duties relating to the budget, annual accounts and audit to ensure proper financial management and transparency. They have a key role in advising on governance, ethical and procedural matters. They liaise with the Braintree District Council, Essex County Council and other bodies as necessar .
The Parish Clerk is required to give clear guidance to Parish Councillors, including the Parish Chair, before decisions are reached. The Parish Clerk is considered and must remain independent and objective as the ECPC is wholly responsible for all decisions made.
The Community Team are employed by the Earls Colne Parish Council.
They are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of all fixed assets that fall within the remit of the ECPC e.g. Village Hall, Public Conveniences etc. They are also responsible for street litter bins, extreme cold weather action (salt spreading), horticulture and ground maintenance for areas owned by the Earls Colne Parish e.g. Village Green, Shrubbery etc, together with tasks under devolved agreements.