New leader at South Kesteven District Council
He takes over from Cllr Richard Cleaver
South Kesteven district council has a new leader.
Ashley Baxter has been promoted from deputy leader - after he was voted in by 29 votes to 25 earlier today.
Cllr Baxter takes over from Cllr Richard Cleaver who resigned at the start of today's meeting after being in the role since May 2023 when an Independent-led coalition formed a new administration following local elections.
The change was in line with an agreement that there would be an opportunity for the administration to review and the leadership in January 2024.
Cllr Baxter, the Independent member for Market and West Deeping, paid tribute to Cllr Cleaver’s record as Leader.
He said: “This change of leadership is not the result of any crisis or instability, and I don’t intend that it should be the cause of any instability."
“There are 70,000 households that are relying on us to deliver efficient, effective, value for money services.
“We can only do that if we all play our part and work together, cross-party, cross-chamber, members and officers alike. Of course we need constructive abrasion but we all need to remember that ultimately, we’re all on the same team. Thanks for appointing me as Team Captain.”
As a member of the Council’s Cabinet, Cllr Baxter will continue to oversee the Finance and Economic Development portfolios.
Cllr Cleaver becomes Deputy Leader and retains the Property and Public Engagement portfolios.