The Council of the Isles of Scilly's elected members are responsible for discharging all local government services for the islands, acting as a unitary authority. They represent their local residents, engage with the community, and contribute to policy development and budget setting. Councillors also make decisions on planning and licensing applications, requiring extensive knowledge of these quasi-judicial areas. Due to the council's small size and unique circumstances, members must have broad oversight of many subject areas and consider the islands' isolation, fragile infrastructure, and the impact of decisions on the local economy, environment, and vulnerable residents.