The meeting focused on the election of council positions, the approval of minutes, and the adoption of two neighbourhood development plans. Key decisions were made regarding the appointment of council leaders, committee memberships, and the adoption of the Brimscombe and Thrupp and Slimbridge Neighbourhood Development Plans.

Election of Vice Chair

Councillor Matthew Sargent was elected as Vice Chair of the Council for the Civic Year 2024/25. The nomination was made by Councillor Brougham and seconded by an unnamed councillor. The vote was conducted electronically.

Appointment of Leader and Deputy Leader

Councillor Catherine Braun was appointed as Leader and Councillor Pete Kennedy as Deputy Leader for the Civic Year 2024/25. The nominations were made by Councillor Oldham and seconded by Councillor Linda Cohen. The electronic vote confirmed their appointments.

Apologies and Declarations of Interest

Apologies were received from Councillors Sarah Canning, Helen Caton Hughes, Bob Hughes, John Parker, and Charlie Tuffin. One councillor declared an interest due to their work with the police in Warwickshire.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the meeting held on April 25, 2024, were approved by a show of hands.

Announcements

The Longfield Community Hospice was announced as Stroud District Council's Charity of the Year. The hospice provides free care for adults in Gloucestershire with life-limiting illnesses and support for their loved ones.

Committee Memberships and Appointments

The council approved the membership of various committees, including the Audit and Standards Committee. Councillor Bob Hughes was appointed as Chair of the Audit and Standards Committee. The council also approved the appointment of representatives to several external bodies and working groups.

Appointment of Independent Persons

The council resolved to appoint Felida Piper and Adrian Stratton as independent persons for a further two years and to commence the recruitment of an additional independent person. The council also agreed to appoint three Parish and Town Council representatives to the Standards Subcommittee.

Brimscombe and Thrupp Neighbourhood Development Plan

The council adopted the Brimscombe and Thrupp Neighbourhood Development Plan, making it part of the development plan for Stroud District. The plan received 84.2% support in a referendum held on May 2.

Slimbridge Neighbourhood Development Plan

The council adopted the Slimbridge Neighbourhood Development Plan, making it part of the development plan for Stroud District. The plan received 84.7% support in a referendum held on May 2.

Conclusion

The meeting concluded with a reminder for councillors to collect their nameplates and microphone ID cards. The Chair thanked everyone for their cooperation and wished them a safe journey home.