A LEAFLET explaining the mayoral referendum in West Devon next January has been dropping through letter boxes throughout the borough this week.
The leaflet, called U Decide, has been produced by the council to help electors make an informed choice when they vote in the referendum to decide whether or not the borough should have a directly elected mayor.
It is the first time since the Common Market ballot in 1975 that West Devon residents have had the chance to vote in a referendum — and more than 21,000 leaflets have been delivered across the borough. There will also be a poster campaign urging people to use their vote.
As part of the Local Government Act, councils in Britain are required to choose one of four options in the way they manage their business.
Two West Devon polls have revealed there is a desire for change in the borough — and most councillors felt a referendum would be the best way forward.
If the public votes for an elected mayor, the election will be held in May 2002 to choose the mayor.
If the vote goes against this option, a streamlined committee system will be introduced.