Melton Borough Council held an extraordinary meeting to elect a new leader following the resignation of Councillor Pip Allnatt. After a tied vote between Councillor Mike Brown and Councillor Ronan Browne, the Mayor, Councillor Siggy Atherton, used her casting vote to elect Councillor Ronan Browne as the new Leader of the Council.

Election of Council Leader

The primary purpose of this extraordinary meeting was to elect a new Leader of Melton Borough Council for the remainder of the current term. Following the resignation of Councillor Pip Allnatt due to ill health, two nominations were put forward: Councillor Mike Brown, nominated by Councillor Margaret Glancy and seconded by Councillor Sarah Cox, and Councillor Ronan Browne, nominated by Councillor Robert Child and seconded by Councillor Ian Atherton.

Both nominated candidates presented their vision and qualifications for the role. Councillor Mike Brown highlighted his experience in local government, his commitment to teamwork and inclusivity, and the achievements of the current administration, including improvements in housing services and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme. Councillor Ronan Browne emphasised his extensive experience in local government and the NHS, his commitment to fiscal responsibility, and his intention to ensure a smooth transition to a unitary authority.

After speeches from the nominees and contributions from other councillors, a vote was taken. The result was a tie between Councillor Mike Brown and Councillor Ronan Browne. As Mayor, Councillor Siggy Atherton used her casting vote to elect Councillor Ronan Browne as the new Leader of the Council. Councillor Browne stated his intention to announce his cabinet in the coming days and reach out to other group leaders to foster collaboration. Councillor Brown expressed his disappointment but pledged to work together if possible.