As the year draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the challenges, achievements and moments of pride that have shaped our community here in Alton.

Serving as a district councillor is a privilege I never take for granted, and this year - in all its unpredictability - has shown once again how resilient, resourceful and community-minded Alton truly is.

A major theme throughout the year has been local government reorganisation. The uncertainty surrounding it has often made planning feel like steering through shifting tides, as we consider potential structural changes without clarity on the final direction or timeline.

This ambiguity has understandably caused concern for residents, staff and councillors. Yet throughout the process, I’ve been encouraged by the open dialogue we’ve maintained as a community.

Our shared priority remains clear: ensuring that any changes protect the quality of local services and strengthen democratic representation.

We also continue to face uncertainty over the Local Plan and whether an Alton Neighbourhood Plan will progress, which remains a concern for many.

Despite these wider challenges, we have also seen genuine moments of progress. A personal highlight was the passing of the chalk streams and rivers motion at the end of November, which I put forward to the council.

Protecting our precious waterways - so vital for wildlife, natural beauty and public wellbeing - has long been a passion of mine. Seeing the motion adopted was not only a policy achievement, but also a reminder of what can be accomplished when environmental responsibility is taken seriously. I’m grateful to all who supported this work and look forward to building on this momentum next year.

This year also brought opportunities to celebrate Alton’s heritage and strengthen civic pride. Speaking at The Alton Society AGM was an honour; the society’s commitment to safeguarding the town’s character while embracing positive change is always inspiring. The thoughtful conversations that day reinforced why Alton thrives: because residents care deeply and engage constructively with the issues shaping our future.

Another standout moment was taking part in the unveiling of the Jane Austen statue during Regency Week - made even more special as Alton marks 250 years since the author’s birth. Standing among residents, visitors, historians and dignitaries, I felt a powerful sense of connection to our town’s cultural legacy. Jane Austen’s time in Alton left a lasting mark, and celebrating her life in such a joyful, public way was a reminder of how our history continues to enrich our present.

As we look ahead, my hopes for the coming year are both simple and ambitious: clarity on local government reorganisation, confirmation that the county council elections will proceed, continued environmental progress, and strong support for the local organisations that form the backbone of our community.

Above all, I hope we continue to uphold the shared values that make Alton such a remarkable place to call home. Whatever uncertainties lie ahead, I’m confident that our community - grounded in its heritage and driven by its people - will meet them with resilience and optimism.

Thank you for allowing me to serve you this year. I wish all my residents a very Happy Christmas, and here’s to a positive, purposeful year ahead.

Cllr Ginny Boxall, East Hampshire District Council, Alton Whitedown