Issue - meetings

To receive remarks from the outgoing Chair.

In welcoming members from all parties, Councillor Asker said she had experienced an interesting year in the Chair. She thanked the Chief Executive and officers for their support during her tenure and provided a summary of the numerous events she had attended. She said the loss of Her Majesty the Queen had cast a shadow but she had hope the new King would bring joy to the country.

The Chief Executive formally thanked Councillor Asker as she received flowers and a portrait to mark her year in the Chair.

To receive remarks from the outgoing Chairman.

In the absence of the outgoing Chairman and Vice Chairman, Councillor Sell took the Chair for the opening of the meeting. He thanked Councillor Wells and Councillor G Barker for their conscientious work as Chairman and Vice Chairman, as well as the Executive Team for their support to the Chairman.

He was sad to advise Council that ex-Councillor Geoffrey Powers, ward member for Great Dunmow North, passed away after a long illness on the 19 May. Councillor Powers was an elected member from 1991 – 2003, during which time he was a deputy leader and Chair of the Amenities Sub Committee.

A minute silence was held.

Councillor Sell presented cheques of £1950 to representatives of the outgoing Chairman’s charities: Clair Mitchell from Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust and Jodie Rowlandson from Addenbrookes Charitable Trust.