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 for Melton Borough Council. This followed the resignation of Councillor Pip Allnatt due to ill health. Two nominations were put forward: Councillor Mike Brown, proposed by Councillor Margaret Glancy and seconded by Councillor Sarah Cox, and Councillor Ronan Browne, proposed by Councillor Robert Child and seconded by Councillor Ian Atherton.

Both candidates presented their cases for leadership. Councillor Mike Brown, representing the Labour Group, highlighted his experience in local government and his commitment to teamwork, inclusivity, and continuing the work of the current administration. He emphasised his background in trade unions as beneficial for bringing people together and navigating the complexities of local government reform. Councillor Brown also pointed to achievements such as improvements in housing services and the reduction of rent arrears.

Councillor Ronan Browne, representing the Conservative Group, stressed his extensive experience in local government, including roles within the NHS, Quangos, and Whitehall, as well as his work with the Regulator for Social Housing and the CQC. He outlined his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition to a unitary authority, engaging with parish councillors, and maintaining essential services. Councillor Browne also pledged to freeze car parking charges and not raise fees and charges where possible prior to the transfer to a new authority. He also proposed that the opposition be given the role to lead on scrutiny.

During the debate, several councillors spoke in support of each candidate, discussing their experience, vision, and suitability for the role, particularly in light of the impending local government reorganisation. Councillor Simon Lumley raised concerns about housing for illegal immigrants and the placement of wind turbines and solar panels, urging the new leader to address these issues. Councillor Leigh Higgins attempted to raise concerns about the judgment of a candidate based on their associations, but was advised by the Mayor and the Monitoring Officer to focus on the qualities relevant to the role of councillor.

Following the speeches, 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 Melton Borough Council for the remainder of the current term.

The newly elected Leader, Councillor Ronan Browne, thanked those who voted for him and stated his intention to announce his cabinet in the coming days. He reiterated his commitment to an inclusive approach and to working with other councillors. Councillor Mike Brown expressed his disappointment but pledged to collaborate with the new leadership. The meeting concluded with the Mayor thanking everyone for their participation.