16.04.18
Struggling Northamptonshire appoints new leader
Troubled Northamptonshire County Council has appointed a new leader at a full council meeting last week.
Cllr Matthew Golby, who was elected to the council in 2009, was selected as leader of the cash-strapped council on 10 April. He became cabinet member for learning, skills and education in 2014 before taking on the children’s services portfolio.
Golby became deputy leader at the county council in 2017 and assumed the role of acting leader last month following the resignation of Cllr Heather Smith.
He pledged to provide the “stable leadership” required to see the council through the transition to unitary governance over the coming years.
“I am keen to continue the work we’ve already begun to reform local government in the county in full partnership with our district and borough council colleagues, and with our local MPs.
“Another priority for me is to begin rebuilding trust with our communities and residents.
“I am very honoured and proud to be voted as the leader of Northamptonshire County Council and I look forward to working with my new cabinet and indeed all members and our staff to move Northamptonshire forwards through the difficult times ahead,” he added.
Earlier this month, the council confirmed its plans to use its reserves to achieve a balanced budget this year in order to offset its predicted overspend of £16.7m.
The meeting also saw Andrew Quincey, executive director for commercial, place and health, officially ratified as interim chief executive.
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