The first meeting of Falkirk's newly elected council takes place today (Wednesday) where the Leader of the Council and the Provost will be elected.
As no party has an overall majority after the election on May 5, it is still unclear who will form the administration - however, SNP group leader, Cecil Meiklejohn, says her party intends to "play our part as the largest elected group".
Cllr Meiklejohn also says Falkirk could be seeing "the beginning of a new, collaborative approach" taking shape.
Speaking before the council meeting, she said: “The first full council meeting is the official beginning of a new council and the SNP fully intend to play our part as the largest party elected to serve the communities of Falkirk district.
"Most of our newly elected Councillors have had an opportunity to gain an insight into the challenges we face as a Council over these last few weeks. Having spoken to many colleagues, the sense of duty on all of us to make decisions at pace that will deliver for each of our communities has certainly struck a chord, including the fact that difficult decisions will be required.
"There is, however, a refreshed enthusiasm within the Council, and I take confidence from seeing the beginnings of a new, collaborative approach taking shape.
"It is, however, up to all Councillors to make the effort in terms of collaboration. Our communities didn’t vote for more of the same, they want to see the Council work together to make a difference. The SNP have been clear that we are ready to work for the benefit of our communities and we believe wholeheartedly that is a principle all councillors, of every party and none, should aspire to.”
The new Labour group leader, Anne Hannah, has previously said that she heard on the doorsteps that people are fed up with "bickering" among councillors as they face cuts to services and hikes in the cost of living.
She also pledged a more collaborative approach.
Today's meeting will see how fast those pledges hold firm as the council meets for the first time.
In addition to the 12 SNP councillors, there are nine Labour members, five Conservatives, and four Independent councillors.
