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Annual Council, The Council - Thursday, 9th May, 2024 3.30 pm

May 9, 2024 View on council website Watch video of meeting Watch video of meeting
AI Generated

Summary

The council meeting primarily focused on expressing gratitude towards the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Stephen Hammill, and his wife, Tracy, for their service over the past year. The session included commendations from various councillors, the appointment of a new Deputy Mayor, and the presentation of parting gifts.

1. Appreciation for Outgoing Mayor and Mayoress: The council formally agreed to record appreciation for the services rendered by Councillor Stephen Hammill and Mrs. Hammill. Speakers highlighted the Mayor's dedication, charity work, and role as an ambassador for the city. The implications are a positive reflection on the council's operations and a boost to the community's morale.

2. Appointment of Deputy Mayor: Councillor Nigel Falkard was nominated and appointed as Deputy Mayor for the upcoming year. The decision was unanimous, with no opposing nominations or significant debate. This appointment is crucial for continuity in the council's leadership and ensures that the Deputy Mayor is prepared to step into the Mayor's role if necessary.

3. Presentation of Parting Gifts: The outgoing Mayor presented 36 crystal glasses to the city, intended to enhance the hosting capabilities at Porters for business and charity events. This gesture aims to leave a lasting legacy that supports the city's social and economic engagements.

Interesting Occurrence: The meeting had moments of light-heartedness, including a birthday acknowledgment for David Stanley from the Music Man Project, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. This illustrates the council's close-knit community atmosphere. The council meeting primarily focused on the annual transition of mayoral duties, including prayers, nominations, and expressions of gratitude towards outgoing officials. The session also introduced new and returning councillors, highlighting their backgrounds and contributions.

1. Election of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor: Councillor Ron Woodley was elected as the new Mayor, and Councillor Nigel Forkard as Deputy Mayor. The nominations were uncontested and supported by speeches that outlined their previous contributions and personal backgrounds. The implications include a continuation of community-focused initiatives, with an emphasis on local services, youth engagement, and economic challenges.

2. Acknowledgements to Outgoing Mayor and Deputy Mayor: The council expressed gratitude to the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Stephen Habermel, and Deputy Mayor. Accolades were given for their service, particularly noting Stephen's efforts in charity, community engagement, and maintaining the dignity of the office. This transition marks a continuation of civic traditions and appreciation for dedicated public service.

Interesting Occurrence: The meeting had moments of light-heartedness, especially when discussing personal anecdotes and the outgoing Mayor's reflections on his term, which included humorous and heartfelt stories from his engagements and duties.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to civic duty and community service, with a smooth transition of leadership and a strong emphasis on acknowledging the contributions of its members.

Attendees

Alan Richards
Claire Shuter
Colin Ansell
Susan Zeiss
Mark Harvey
Profile image for Councillor Stephen Habermel
Councillor Stephen Habermel  Conservative Party •  Chalkwell Ward
Councillor Stephen Aylen
Councillor Martin Berry
Profile image for Councillor Kevin Buck
Councillor Kevin Buck  Conservative Party •  Prittlewell Ward
Councillor Laurie Burton
Councillor Colin Campbell
Councillor Owen Cartey
Councillor Paul Collins
Profile image for Councillor Daniel Cowan
Councillor Daniel Cowan  Leader of the Council •  Labour & Co-operative Party •  St Laurence Ward
Councillor Tony Cox
Councillor Meg Davidson
Profile image for Councillor Alan Dear
Councillor Alan Dear  Conservative Party •  Belfairs Ward
Councillor Matt Dent
Councillor Fay Evans
Councillor Nigel Folkard
Profile image for Councillor David Garston
Councillor David Garston  Conservative Party •  Prittlewell Ward
Councillor Ian Gilbert
Councillor John Harland
Councillor Lydia Hyde
Councillor Anne Jones
Profile image for Councillor Darryl Jones
Councillor Darryl Jones  Deputy Leader of the Southend Reform UK Group •  Reform UK •  Southchurch Ward
Councillor Gabriel Leroy
Councillor Kevin Robinson
Robert Harris
Joanne Stowell
Councillor Sam Allen
Councillor Stuart Allen
Councillor Susan Badger
Councillor Irene Ferguson
Councillor Shahid Nadeem
Councillor James Moyies
Councillor Dave Poulton
Councillor Nick Ward
Councillor Maxine Sadza
Councillor Jack Warren
Councillor Daniel Nelson
Councillor Cheryl Nevin
Councillor Lesley Salter
Profile image for Councillor Richard Longstaff
Councillor Richard Longstaff  Green Party •  Leigh Ward
Councillor Jane Norman
Councillor Judith McMahon
Councillor Mandy O'Connor
Councillor Martin Terry
Councillor Ron Woodley
Profile image for Councillor Kathy Murphy
Councillor Kathy Murphy  Non-Aligned •  St Lukes Ward