In the last 7 days (since Saturday 11 May 2024), the council has held the following meetings:

1. Property / Regeneration Briefing - Monday 13 May 2024
2. Cabinet - Tuesday 14 May 2024
3. Health and Wellbeing Board - Tuesday 14 May 2024
4. Council - Wednesday 15 May 2024
5. Council - Wednesday 15 May 2024
6. Unknown committee - Thursday 16 May 2024

Council Meeting - Wednesday 15 May 2024

The most significant meeting this week was the Council meeting on Wednesday. This meeting included the election of the ceremonial mayor and deputy ceremonial mayor for the municipal year 2024-25. Councillor Tanya Birch was elected as the ceremonial mayor, and Councillor Heather Fletcher was elected as the deputy ceremonial mayor. The formal installation of both took place in a separate meeting later that day.

The meeting also covered the results of the local elections. The Chief Executive, as the returning officer, presented the report, congratulating all newly elected and re-elected members. Councillor Dickman and Councillor Robin Garrido expressed their thanks to the election staff and welcomed the new and returning councillors.

Another important topic was the notification of the appointment of the Cabinet for 2024-25. The City Mayor, Paul Dennett, stated that he was not yet in a position to disclose the exact members of the mayoral team but assured that an update would be provided soon.

The membership of committees and panels, including the appointments of chairs and deputy chairs, was discussed. Councillor Walters proposed an amendment to include the unwipped group in various committees, but this amendment was rejected with 48 votes against and only 3 in favor.

The appointment of representatives to outside bodies was also discussed. Amendments were made to the list, including changes to the Homes of Skills and Technology hosts.

The meeting concluded with the City Mayor's statement, where he outlined his vision for a greener, fairer, and more prosperous Salford. He highlighted key achievements and future plans, including building 600 more council homes, taking control of social care, and implementing a rugby strategy for the city. He also addressed the recent fire at Clarendon Leisure Centre, expressing sadness and outlining the steps being taken to assess the damage and plan for the future.

Several councillors, including Councillor Robin Garrido, Councillor Murray, Councillor Keeley, and Councillor Saunders, responded to the City Mayor's statement, raising various issues and congratulating the newly elected officials. The meeting ended with a note of thanks to the ceremonial mayor, Councillor Gina Reynolds, for her service and the significant amount of money raised for charity during her term.

Installation of Ceremonial Mayor and Deputy Ceremonial Mayor

The second Council meeting on Wednesday was primarily focused on the installation of Councillor Tanya Birch as the ceremonial mayor of Salford for the municipal year 2024/25. Several councillors spoke in support of her appointment, highlighting her qualities and past contributions.

1. Installation of Councillor Tanya Birch as Ceremonial Mayor:

   • Councillor Heather Fletcher proposed the motion to install Councillor Tanya Birch as the ceremonial mayor. She shared personal stories to illustrate Councillor Birch's qualities, such as her warm and welcoming personality and her interest in learning about different cultures.
   • Councillor Hilaria Asumu seconded the motion, praising Councillor Birch's commitment to public service and her recent re-election success.
   • Councillor Robin Greedo also supported the motion, highlighting Councillor Birch's efforts to help Ukrainian families and her active involvement in the local community and church.
   • The motion was put to a vote and agreed upon by the council members. Councillor Birch then signed the statutory declaration of acceptance of office and gave a speech expressing her gratitude and outlining her plans for the year, including support for two charities: Saint Anne's Hospice and the Royal Naval Association.

2. Vote of Thanks to Retiring Ceremonial Mayor and Consort:

   • Councillor John Womisham gave a vote of thanks to the retiring ceremonial mayor, Councillor Gina Reynolds, and her consort, Councillor Neil Reynolds, highlighting their achievements over the past year, including raising over £44,000 for charity.
   • Councillor Robin Greedo also expressed his gratitude, emphasizing the significant amount of money raised for charity and their dedication to their roles.
   • Councillor Gina Reynolds gave a valedictory address, reflecting on her year as ceremonial mayor and thanking those who supported her. She mentioned various memorable events and her pride in promoting Salford as an inclusive and caring city.

3. Installation of Councillor Heather Fletcher as Deputy Ceremonial Mayor:

   • Councillor Maria Brabener proposed the motion to install Councillor Heather Fletcher as the Deputy Ceremonial Mayor for the municipal year 2024/25.
   • Councillor Jan Womisham seconded the motion, expressing his pleasure in supporting his colleague.
   • Councillor Analucondas supported the motion, highlighting Councillor Fletcher's popularity and her role in the local Jewish community and the Muslim Jewish Forum.
   • The motion was put to a vote and confirmed by the council members.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude and best wishes for the new ceremonial mayor and deputy ceremonial mayor.

Summary

This week’s council meetings were marked by significant changes in leadership and the outlining of future plans for Salford. The election and installation of the ceremonial mayor and deputy ceremonial mayor set the tone for the upcoming municipal year. The City Mayor’s vision for a greener, fairer, and more prosperous Salford was a key highlight, with specific plans for housing, social care, and community sports being emphasized. The response to the recent fire at Clarendon Leisure Centre also indicates a proactive approach to unforeseen challenges.

For more details, you can access the full transcripts and summaries through the provided links.