RESIDENTS in Chelmsford will be asked how they want their council to be run.

Under changes to the Local Government Act, district and borough councils have to adopt a new type of executive arrangement that will come into effect in May next year..

The two choices Chelmsford has are a leader and executive – which it has now – or an elected mayor and executive.

Both models place all executive powers in the hands of one individual – either an elected mayor or “strong” leader.

The elected mayor option would be different in that the person chosen to be mayor would be elected by the voters at the same time as the local elections on May 5 next year.

Nicolette Chambers, cabinet member for corporate srvices, told the cabinet meeting of the council that the consultation would take place in September and October this year.

“The council will take on board the public views,” she added.