Key themes for new-look Cabinet

Itake great pride in the faith that has been shown in me, having been elected Leader of a new-look South Kesteven District Council. The voters of South Kesteven have made a choice for change and I have already started work on the delivering just that across the whole District.

For full details of the election results and reaction please turn to page 15 of this edition.

The first task of the new administration is to establish the true state of the Council’s finances. We must ensure they are as sound as they can be. There are a number of other key themes which we will also pursue:

• Improving decision-making by enhancing scrutiny and review of major projects

• Stepping up action on climate change

• Improving response times to enquiries from the public

• Doing all we can to help people through the cost of living crisis

• Stimulating the local economy

• More transparency in

By Cllr Richard Cleaver, Leader of South Kesteven District Council

development and planning policy

• Providing good quality council housing and other social housing

• Renewing public confidence in our council and local democracy

I have never seen our country’s public services so over-stretched at any point previously.

We face a great challenge but one which I know we will confront conscientiously, creatively and compassionately and I encourage all communities within the District to work with me in this spirit.

I am delighted to be working with the Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Ashley Baxter (IND, Market and West Deeping) who is also the Cabinet Member for Finance and Economic Development.

Joining us in the Cabinet are:

• Cllr Rhys Baker (GREEN, Bourne Austerby) and Cllr Patsy Ellis (GREEN, Grantham St Vincent’s) – joint portfolio holders for Environment and Waste

• Cllr Phil Dilks (IND, Deeping St James) – portfolio holder for Housing and Planning

• Cllr Philip Knowles (IND, Bourne East) – portfolio holder for Corporate Goverance and Licensing

• Cllr Rhea Rayside (LIB DEM, Stamford St George’s) –portfolio holder for People and Communities

• Cllr Paul Stokes (IND, Grantham Arnoldfield) –portfolio holder for Leisure and Culture

Rest assured that we will be working in the very best interests of the residents and businesses of South Kesteven.

This administration will embrace partnership, collaboration, openness and transparency, which are key components in creating stronger communities and providing stability, while achieving shared goals.

I am under no illusion that the hard work starts here.