Community share ‘disappointment’ as third town councillor resigns

AS a third councillor resigns from their position on Melksham Town Council, local people have expressed their disappointment at losing yet another elected representative. 

Colin Goodhind who served the council for two years, representing Melksham South Ward and was deputy mayor in his first year, announced his resignation on Thursday 26th October. 

In his resignation letter to the mayor, he cited reasons for leaving being due to; management and leadership issues, a ‘flawed’ procurement policy, lack of trust and confidence, lack of respect for the councillors who volunteer their time to helping the community and difficulties with asking questions and raising issues. 

Melksham News broke the story on social media, with members of the community coming forward to give thanks to Colin Goodhind for his work and sharing their disappointment at losing a third town councillor this year.  

One resident said, “This is a man whose love for his community shines like a beacon. He has integrity, drive and is always willing to go the extra mile. He brought parkrun to Melksham five years ago and I know how much energy and effort went into getting it established. It really is Melksham Town Council’s loss. So frustrating when bureaucratic processes… and worse ….gets in the way of real progress.” 

Another resident said, “I will be sad to see you go Colin, thank you for everything.” 

Colin Goodhind’s resignation follows the resignations of Louisa Lewis in April this year, who said she was resigning due to bullying and Carl Houghton, who resigned due to personal circumstances. 

“It’s about time something is done about those left in the council when a person like Colin Goodhind resigns,” says a resident. “A man who cares about the people of Melksham. We have lost some good councillors in recent months, something needs to be done.” 

Cllr Jon Hubbard said, “A massive loss to our town and the council. It’s really sad that the concerns that quality councillors like Colin has, are just brushed aside, and he is left feeling he has no option but to resign. Colin is a great individual and the town council will be all the worse for losing him. Time to get this sorted out.” 

Speaking to Melksham News, Colin Goodhind said, “It has been a privilege to serve the electorate of my ward; getting to know many of you and helping and supporting you with different issues is something that I will treasure for a long time. 

“The situation within the management of Melksham Town Council has brought me to a point where I feel I cannot best represent my electorate. Rest assured, I will be spending time holding the council accountable from the outside. My frustrations with the slow progression of projects and services for those who pay for them – you – will not disappear overnight. However, I have several projects outside of Melksham Town Council, and they often intersect, which I’m sure will prove helpful. 

“I am confident that a capable replacement will be found for my seat. Please feel free to get in touch with me if you wish to.”