The Annual Council meeting of Barnet Council saw the appointment of Councillor Barry Rawlings as the new Leader of the Council following a recorded vote. The meeting also addressed the council's budget for the upcoming year, with a 2.98% increase in the general council tax and a 2% increase in the social care precept being proposed.

Appointment of Council Leader

Councillor Barry Rawlings was appointed as the Leader of Barnet Council for the 2026-2030 term. The decision followed a recorded vote where Councillor Rawlings secured 31 votes in favour, with 31 abstentions and one vote against. Councillor Peter Zinkin, who had also been nominated for the leadership, received 31 votes in favour and 32 against his nomination, resulting in his proposal being lost. The election of the leader occurred in a council with no overall majority, with 31 Labour councillors, 31 Conservative councillors, and one Green Party councillor.

Budget and Council Tax Approval

The council considered the budget for the 2026/27 financial year and the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for 2026-2031. This includes a proposed 2.98% increase in the general element of Council Tax and a 2% increase for the Social Care Precept, intended to help fund social care services. The proposed budget also encompasses detailed revenue budgets, proposed savings, and funding for pressures in 2026/27. The Capital Strategy, Capital Programme, Treasury Management Strategy Statement, HRA Business Plan, and the Council Tax Support Scheme for 2026/27 were presented for consideration.

Constitutional Amendments and Committee Appointments

Several constitutional amendments were agreed upon, including changes to committees and the allocation of seats to comply with political balance regulations. Councillor Charli Thompson opposed these changes, arguing they weakened democratic participation and transparency, particularly the removal of deputations from full council. The council also agreed to delegate authority to the monitoring officer to make any further consequential amendments to the constitution in consultation with group leaders. Appointments to various committees, outside bodies, and council companies were also agreed.

Election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor

Councillor Zara Begg was elected as the Mayor of Barnet for the municipal year 2026-27. The Mayor then appointed Councillor Humayor Callick as the Deputy Mayor and Councillor Lakhia Bahouda Gharag as the Civic Ambassador.

Other Business

The meeting also included official announcements, including tributes to former councillors and recognition of community efforts. The council noted the results of the local government elections held on 7 May 2026, which resulted in a political balance of 31 Labour councillors, 31 Conservative councillors, and one Green Party councillor. The council agreed that general dispensations for councillors are granted by the monitoring officer until May 2030. The council also considered an amendment to the Members' Allowances Scheme for 2026-27, which includes provisions for elected members to join the Local Government Pension Scheme.