Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns Calls for Change Ahead of Special Council Meeting
Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns has issued a strong statement ahead of tonight's special meeting of Rutland County Council, where a motion of no confidence in the current council leadership, led by Liberal Democrat Cllr Gale Waller, is set to be debated. The meeting, called by the Conservative group, will take place at 7pm this evening.
In her comments, Alicia Kearns voiced the Conservative group's reasons for the motion, citing a "democratic deficit" at the council and a lack of confidence in the current leadership's approach to Local Government Reform (LGR). She stated that the core of the issue is about "residents having a say in our own future."
The MP argues that the current leadership has not presented residents with multiple options for LGR, instead "rail-roading" them into a single choice. She believes that all options should be investigated, with residents consulted properly, and all councillors having a vote. This, she says, would allow for a more democratic and transparent process.
Alicia Kearns also addressed the timing of the vote, stating, "if we wait it will be too late." She explained that proposals for LGR are due with the government in November, and that a change in leadership now would allow for a new council to conduct a proper and meaningful consultation with residents in September. This consultation would present residents with a range of options, including remaining as a standalone council, joining North Leicestershire, joining Stamford, or joining an all-Leicestershire council.
The MP also highlighted past actions of the council leadership, including a failure to honour a promise to hold a debate and non-binding vote on LGR proposals before they were submitted to the government. She also pointed to what she sees as a lack of public engagement, and a failure to listen to residents' views.
Further concerns raised by Alicia Kearns include the leader's alleged commitment to building 5,000 houses at Woolfox and developing St George's Barracks as a "major housing hub," without any discussion with elected councillors or residents.
The MP concluded her statement by saying the Conservative group has been left with "no choice but to lay this motion," and that "if they do not act now, there is no other chance to change course for Rutland." The Conservative group has stated that they are ready to work with the Independent group to form a coalition, and have offered the role of Leader to the Independent group.
Oakham and Rutland News will be streaming live from the Council Chamber this evening: www.facebook.com/oakhamrutlandnews/
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