The LGA Independent Group held their autumn conference on October 18th 2010 to champion elected members in the 21st century. The document discusses the challenges politicians face and how the roles of local politicians have changed from town hall leaders to cabinet members for their wards. It suggests councillors can provide strategic and political thinking, communication, leadership, and express community values that officers cannot. The discussion question is how the "big society" concept will join with community activism and local government.