The annual council meeting of St. Helens focused on expressing gratitude to the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Lynn Clark, and electing the new Mayor, Councillor Jeanette Banks. The meeting also included the appointment of a new Deputy Mayor and various administrative tasks.

1. Vote of Thanks to Outgoing Mayor:

   • Councillor Lynn Clark was thanked for her dedication and service over the past year. Multiple councillors, including Councillors Ooden, Roody, Murphy, Bean, Messel, Berns, Charlton, Maguire, Bell, and others, praised her efforts in attending numerous events, supporting the Deafness Resource Center in Windall, and engaging with the community. Councillor Clark was recognized for her warmth, kindness, and commitment to public service.

2. Election of New Mayor:

   • Councillor Jeanette Banks was elected as the new Mayor of St. Helens for 2024-2025. Councillor Tricia Long proposed her election, highlighting Jeanette's extensive service background, values, and commitment to the community. Councillor Dickinson seconded the motion. Councillor Banks expressed her pride and commitment to serving the borough, mentioning her long-standing ties to the community and her chosen charity, St. Helens Young Carers.

3. Appointment of Deputy Mayor:

   • Councillor Jeannie Bell was appointed as the Deputy Mayor for the 2024-2025 municipal year. The motion was moved by Councillor Laird and seconded by Councillor Bond.

4. Administrative Matters:

   • Apologies for absence were noted from several councillors.
   • Declarations of interest were made, including a pecuniary interest in item 12.
   • The minutes of the previous council meeting held on March 6, 2024, were approved.
   • A report on the Cabinet Leader was approved, with Councillor Gomez-Aspron moving the recommendation.
   • The dates and times of future council meetings were noted.
   • Constitutional issues, allocation of seats on committees, appointments to the City Region joint authorities, and appointments to outside and other bodies for 2024-2025 were discussed and approved.

5. Leader's Address:

   • The new leader of the council, Councillor Gomez-Aspron, expressed gratitude for the support received and acknowledged the work of his predecessor, Councillor David Baines. He outlined the council's priorities, including supporting children and young people, protecting vulnerable residents, promoting growth, and modernizing town centres.

The meeting concluded with a call for attendees to proceed to the assembly hall.