It is an honour to be writing my first magazine article (no pun intended!) as the new LGA Independent Group Leader – and following the LGA’s annual conference in Liverpool, I want to reiterate my commitments as the new group leader.
I want to actively engage all members across our group because I believe that our strength lies in the diversity of perspectives, experiences and ideas that we have.
In an era when local government is facing unprecedented challenges, it is more important than ever that we are heard loud and clear across the LGA and in Westminster.
“We will continue to push for policies that empower local authorities”
My first priorities will be to establish an Independent Group Executive that is effective and accountable to you, and to refresh and reinvigorate our representation on the LGA’s new policy committees.
If you are interested in sitting on either, please complete and return the expression of interest form, which you have received by email, before 31 July.
Finally, I am committed to building on our track record of shaping national government policy.
Against local government reorganisation, we will continue to push for policies that empower local authorities, champion public services and ensure that local communities are not left behind.
We are an amazing group, full of talent and ambition, and I look forward to working with you all to shape the future of our group and local government.