Leader's blog

Friday 18 October

My first meeting this week was with Jonathan Nertney, Head of Democratic Services. Jonathan's manages our Democratic Services, but also Electoral Services and our Scrutiny Groups.

Although the next planned election isn't until May 2027, when we have our local elections, there's a lot of work to do. We're currently in the process of the annual Canvass, which checks that the electoral register is up to date. It's our legal duty to check that the register is correct, even when we've had a lot of election as we have had this year.

Mid-week I had a pre-agenda meeting of the Council's Health and Wellbeing Board, for which I am Chair. This pre-agenda meeting makes sure that I am briefed on all of the agenda points before the full meeting which is scheduled later this month.

Yesterday was Cabinet. At the meeting we discussed the new Stockton-on-Tees Plan, which will act as our new Council Plan. It outlines what we will do, and what we want residents to, to improve the Borough.

Other things discussed some of the plans for Powering Our Future, looking at how key Council services are delivered to be more effective and value for money. You can see the proposals on our website.

Later today myself and other senior officers have a meeting with the Local Government Association (LGA) to see how they can support our Health and Wellbeing Board through a development programme which we are looking forward to.

A the weekend I'll be spending some time relaxing with my family. Middlesbrough will be keen to rebound from their loss to Watford two weeks ago as they host Bristol City this weekend at the Riverside. We're strong favourites and a win has the potential of lifting us into the playoff spots.