Agenda and draft minutes
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Election of a Chair Purpose To fulfil Council’s obligation to elect a Chair for a term of office until the start of the Annual Council meeting in May 2026. The Chair cannot be a member of the Cabinet. Additional documents: Minutes: The outgoing Chair of Council, Councillor Nikki Ind opened the meeting and welcomed newly elected councillors Laura Hall-Wilson (Tetbury with Upton) and Nick Bridges (Watermoor). District Councillors Daryl Corps, Joe Harris, Mark Harris, Paul Hodgkinson, and Lisa Spivey were congratulated on their recent election to Gloucestershire County Council. It was noted that Councillor Spivey had made history as the first woman elected as leader of the County Council.
The first item of business was the election of the new Chair of Council,
The outgoing Chair called for nominations for the position of Chair of Council.
Councillor Joe Harris proposed Councillor Mark Harris as Chair. Councillor Harris was commended on a personal and professional level, his many years of public service and valuable experience as Vice-Chair of Council were noted. Councillor Claire Bloomer seconded the nomination, reaffirmed the comments made by Councillor Harris and noted the excellent work done in representing Cotswold District Council.
There were no further nominations for the position of Chair of Council so the nomination was put to a vote and agreed by Council.
Voting Record: 28 For, 0 Against, 1 Abstention
Having been elected Councillor Harris signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office as Chair. The Proper Officer witnessed the signature.
The Exchange of the Council Regalia took place, during which the chains of office were formally transferred from Councillor Ind to Councillor Harris.
Councillor Harris expressed his gratitude for the honour of being elected Chair of Council. The outgoing Chair, Councillor Nikki Ind, was thanked for her exemplary leadership and strong sense of community. Reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings to local involvement, the Chair affirmed his deep connection to the Cotswolds and his commitment to constructive, efficient debate. He pledged to represent the district’s communities and uphold values both in the chamber and beyond.
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Appointment of a Vice-Chair Purpose To fulfil Council’s obligation to appoint a Vice-Chair for a term of office until the start of the Annual Council meeting in May 2026. The Vice-Chair cannot be a member of the Cabinet. Additional documents: Minutes: The Chair presided over the appointment of a Vice-Chair of Council and called for any nominations.
Councillor Juliet Layton nominated Councillor Ray Brassington, who had recently stepped down as Chair of the Planning and Licensing Committee, stating that his experience would be extremely valuable in the role of Vice-Chair.
Councillor McKeown seconded the nomination and echoed the comments made by Councillor Layton.
There were no further nominations for the position of Vice-Chair of Council.
The nomination was put to a vote and agreed by Council.
Voting Record: 29 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstentions
It was noted that Councillor Brassington had sent apologies and would sign the Acceptance of Office at a later date.
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Apologies Purpose To receive any apologies for absence. The quorum for Council is 9 members.
Additional documents: Minutes: Apologies were received from Councillors Ray Brassington, Tony Dale, Tony Slater, Michael Vann, and David Cunningham. Apologies were also noted from the Chief Executive Officer, Robert Weaver. |
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Announcements from the Chair, Leader or Chief Executive Purpose To receive any announcements from the Chair of Council, the Leader of the Council or the Chief Executive. Additional documents: Minutes: The Chair echoed the earlier congratulations to newly elected Members of Cotswold District Council and to the Members of Gloucestershire County Council.
The Chair invited Councillor Daryl Corps to pay tribute to Sue Stapley, a long-standing Moreton-in-Marsh resident who had recently passed away. She was remembered as a passionate advocate for community service, with a career spanning the BBC, legal advocacy, and extensive voluntary work. She served in roles including Governor of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Chair of Playground Proms, and Trustee of LAMDA. A founding member of the SDP and the first national chair of the 300 Group, she championed women in politics. Locally, she contributed to the Moreton Neighbourhood Plan and Moreton Against Overdevelopment. Her warmth, style, and strong principles were fondly remembered. Councillor Corps thanked members for the opportunity to honour her.
There were no announcements from the Leader.
There were no announcements from the Deputy Leader. |
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Declarations of Interest Purpose To receive any declarations of interest from Members relating to items to be considered at the meeting. Additional documents: Minutes: There were no declarations of interest from Members present. |
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Resignation of Leader Purpose To note the resignation of Councillor Joe Harris as Leader of the Council. Councillor Joe Harris has notified the Proper Officer of his resignation as Leader of the Council effective from Tuesday 20 May 2025.
Additional documents: Minutes: Councillor Joe Harris had notified the Proper Officer of his resignation as Leader of the Council, effective from 20 May 2025. His resignation was formally noted, and the Chair thanked him for his significant achievements and dedicated service to Cotswold District Council.
The outgoing Leader of the Council reflected on his six years in leadership and eleven years as Leader of the Liberal Democrat group. He expressed pride in the Council's achievements, including pandemic support, affordable housing, poverty reduction, and environmental and community initiatives. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of council members, staff, and his Cabinet, highlighting his deputy, the Chief Executive, and Councillor Tony Dale. He emphasised the importance of principled leadership, teamwork, and public service, and confirmed he would remain a ward councillor.
Members expressed heartfelt thanks to the outgoing Leader for his leadership, dedication, and vision over the past six years. They acknowledged his influence on colleagues’ political journeys and his encouragement for others to stand for election. His compassionate and determined leadership, commitment to the Cotswolds, and the strong, supportive group dynamic he fostered were widely praised. His move to a cabinet role at the County Council was welcomed, with confidence in his continued positive impact. His energetic and relentless campaigning style, was seen as a reflection of his passion for public service. |
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Election of Leader Purpose To elect a Leader of the Council for a term of office extending to the Annual Council meeting in May 2027. Additional documents: Minutes: The Chair introduced the item, noted the requirement to elect a Leader of the Council until the annual meeting in May 2027 and called for nominations.
Councillor Lisa Spivey formally nominated Councillor Mike Evemy, highlighting his extensive local government experience, long-standing public service, and leadership as Cabinet Member for Finance since 2019. She described him as a principled, pragmatic leader and inspiring colleague.
Councillor Patrick Coleman seconded the nomination, praising Councillor Evemy’s thoughtful, patient, and reliable nature, and thanked him for his willingness to take on the role.
The opposition were thanked for their patience and courtesy during the item.
There were no further nominations for Leader of Council.
The nomination was put to a vote and agreed by Council.
Voting Record; 29 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstentions
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Announcement of the Leader on Cabinet appointments Purpose For the Leader to update Council on the appointment of the Deputy Leader, the appointment of Cabinet members and the allocation of portfolio responsibilities. Additional documents: Minutes: The newly elected Leader thanked members for their support and their vote of confidence. He paid tribute to the outgoing Chair, Nikki Ind, for her friendly but firm leadership over the past two years and congratulated the newly elected Chair and Vice-Chair. A warm welcome was extended to new councillors Laura Hall-Wilson and Nick Bridges. The leader also congratulated Councillor Lisa Spivey on her election as Leader of Gloucestershire County Council and acknowledged the success of members elected to County Council.
Tribute was paid to the outgoing Leader for transformational leadership and the positive changes to the Council during his tenure were noted. Emphasis was placed on a commitment to being an approachable and inclusive Leader for all members, regardless of party.
Key priorities were outlined with the emphasis on maintaining focus on core services, affordable housing, climate action, community wellbeing, and digital transformation.
The emerging challenge of local government reorganisation(LGR) was noted and the Leader pledged to lead the Council’s response while maintaining focus on current objectives.
The Leader then announced the following Cabinet Appointments:
Leader – Councillor Mike Evemy
Deputy Leader and Housing and Planning – Councillor Juliet Layton
Finance – Councillor Patrick Coleman
Climate Change and Digital – Councillor Mike McKeown
Economy and Council Transformation – Councillor Tristan Wilkinson
Health, Culture and Visitor Experience – Councillor Paul Hodgkinson
Communities – Councillor Claire Bloomer
Environment and Regulatory Services – Councillor Andrea Pellegram
The Leader made the following points:
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Appointment of Committees 2025/26 Purpose This report sets out those matters reserved to Council at its Annual Meeting: To make appointments to Committees for the Civic Year 2025/26 To make appointments to the positions of the Chair and Vice-Chair of Committees for the Civic Year 2025/26.
Recommendations That Full Council resolves to: 1. DETERMINE that, in accordance with Section 15 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 (“the Act”), the Council shall continue to apply the political balance provisions under the Act to committees as shown in Annex A; 2. APPOINT Councillors to serve on the Council’s Committees and working groups as set out in Annex B for a term of office expiring at the next Annual Meeting of the Council; 3. APPOINT Chairs and Vice-Chairs for the Council’s Committees and working groups as shown in Annex B; 4. NOTE the arrangements for substitutions set out in part 4 of the report.
Annex B to be circulated separately. Additional documents:
Minutes: Councillor Mike Evemy, Leader of the Council, introduced the annual report on political balance and committee appointments.
The report set out those matters reserved to Council at its Annual Meeting:
A change in political balance following a recent by-election was noted, increasing the number of Conservative members from 9 to 10. Committee allocations were adjusted accordingly, with revised seat distributions and nominations.
The report also confirmed committee chair and vice-chair appointments and the continuation of existing substitution arrangements. Councillor Evemy moved the recommendations as set out in the report, and the Chair invited comments or questions
On behalf of the Conservative Group, Councillor Tom Stowe thanked the Chair and congratulated Councillor Evemy on his election as Leader of the Council, highlighting his experience and knowledge. The Group expressed hope for steady leadership through upcoming challenges and confirmed their intention to hold the administration to account while offering constructive alternatives.
The importance of committee work was emphasised, particularly given ongoing financial pressures, uncertainties around local government reorganisation, and national policy changes.
The dedication of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and its Chair, Councillor Gina Bloomfield, was praised, along with a call for continued support for the Committee.
Continuity on the Planning and Audit & Governance Committees was welcomed, with recognition of members’ valuable experience.
Councillor Laura Hall-Wilson was introduced as the newest Conservative member, noted for strong local representation.
Regarding devolution and local government reorganisation, a call was made for all members to work collaboratively to ensure an effective transition and improved governance.
The Conservative Group thanked the former Vice Chair and outgoing member for their valued contributions. They welcomed new members and noted the apolitical nature and importance of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee’s work. The Group also welcomed the new Vice-Chair of the committee.
Additionally, the Conservative Group expressed gratitude to the former Leader, Councillor Joe Harris, for his effective leadership and acknowledged the importance of cross-party cooperation.
There were no further comments or questions.
Councillor Mike Evemy proposed the nominations which were seconded by Councillor Tom Stowe .
The recommendations were put to a vote and agreed by Council.
Voting Record: 25 For, 0 Against, 0Abstain Councillors David Fowles, Joe Harris, Nigel Robbins and Ian Watson did not vote.
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Record of Attendance 2024/25 Purpose For Council to note the record of attendance for Members in the Civic Year 2024/25.
A Member Attendance report will be published as a supplement once Council meetings for the Civic Year 2024/25 are completed. Additional documents: Minutes: The Leader introduced the report, the Councillors' Record of Attendance for the Civic Year 2024/25, noting it was for information only. It was highlighted that the published attendance record covered Council, committee, and working group meetings from the past year, as detailed in the supplement dated 21 May 2025. It was also noted that Councillors attended other, mostly external meetings, which were not included in the figures presented in the report.
The Leader proposed the report for noting and the Deputy Leader, Councillor Juliet Layton, seconded the proposal.
RESOLVED: Full Council NOTED the report |
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Appointments to Outside Bodies 2025/26 Purpose This report provides Council with a current list of appointments to Outside Bodies for the civic year 2025/26.
Recommendations That Council resolves to: 1. NOTE the appointments to outside bodies by the Leader of the Council in respect of executive functions, as set out in Annex A Table 1; 2. CONFIRM the appointments to the Gloucestershire County Council Economic Strategy Scrutiny Committee and the Gloucestershire County Council Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as set out in Annex A Table 2.
Annex A to be circulated separately. Additional documents: Minutes: The Leader presented the report which provided Council with a list of nominations to Outside Bodies for the civic year 2025/26 for consideration.
Annex A – Outside Body Nominations was circulated during the meeting.
The Leader drew attention to the nominations for appointment by Council as set out in Annex A, Table 1 as :
A vacancy for a substitute member on the Economic Growth Scrutiny Committee was also noted. Council also noted the Leader’s executive appointments to outside bodies, as listed in Annex A, Table 2.
The resolution was proposed by Councillor Mike Evemy and seconded by Councillor Juliet Layton.
The Chair then moved to the vote on the recommendations of the Outside Bodies report.
Voting Record: 29 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstentions
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Rural England Prosperity Fund 2025-26 Purpose To update Council on the award of Rural England Prosperity Funding for 2025/26, to seek approval for the approach to delivery of REPF projects in 2025/26 and to agree the necessary delegations.
Recommendation(s) That Council resolves to: 1. AMEND the capital programme for 2025/26 to include the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) scheme capital budget of £229,240, which is fully funded from the 2025/26 REPF grant allocation. 2. APPROVE the provisional allocations as set out in para 3.1. 3. DELEGATE authority to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Economy and Environment and the Council’s Section 151 Officer to allocate the funding, having regard to the recommendations of the REPF Assessment Panel. Additional documents: Minutes: Councillor Tristan Wilkinson introduced the report and gave an update on the award of the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) for 2025-26, with a capital allocation of £229,240. It was outlined that the fund provided a valuable opportunity to support a range of small local organisations with relatively small grants, which made a significant difference to those groups. Approval of the proposed allocation process was requested as was delegated authority to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Economy and Council Transformation, and the Council’s Section 151 Officer, to approve funding decisions based on recommendations from the REPF assessment panel. It was noted that
Councillor Tom Stowe expressed support for the scheme and sought clarification on the application window, noting concerns about the tight deadline for applications of 30 May 2025. The challenging application process for local organisations was acknowledged and the Deputy Chief Executive confirmed that the existing deadline could be extended by a few weeks to allow broader participation and increase outreach. Councillor Patrick Coleman enquired about the involvement of the Gloucestershire Rural Community Council (GRCC), given their past role in the administration of related schemes. The Deputy Chief Executive explained that the current round would be administered internally due to the late timing of the allocation and the Council’s increased capacity. The decision to manage the fund in-house, was welcomed and the opportunity for the Council’s support to be visibly acknowledged in the community was highlighted
There were no further comments or questions for clarity
The resolution was proposed by Councillor Tristan Wilkinson, and seconded by Councillor Mike Evemy.
The Chair then moved to the vote on the recommendations in the report.
Voting Record: 29 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstentions.
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Next meeting The next meeting of Full Council will be held on 16 July 2025, the meeting will start at 6.00pm.
Additional documents: Minutes: The Chair in closing the meeting confirmed that the next scheduled meeting of Full Council would be on 16 July 2025 at 6pm.
The meeting commenced at 6.00pm and closed at 7.27pm |
Carried