Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Councillors Sandra Barr, Akin Elekolusi, Lynda Guy, Loraine Rossati, Tom Wren and Deputy Youth Mayor Frankie Duncan.

There were no declarations of interest.

To consider the following Motion of which notice has been given in accordance with Standing Orders:

‘That in accordance with the provisions of Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, this Council confers the title of Freeman of the Borough on Baroness Taylor of Stevenage who has rendered 25 years eminent service as a Councillor, including 16 as the Council’s Leader, selflessly dedicating herself to both the town and the Council. 

Baroness Taylor’s contributions at County, regional and national levels were recognised when she was asked to join the House of Lords in 2022, and she now holds the role of Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The meeting had been convened to consider a Motion to confer the title of Freeman of the Borough on Baroness Taylor of Stevenage.

Councillor Richard Henry in moving the motion paid tribute to Baroness Taylor for her outstanding service to the town and advised that this was the highest award the Council could confer on an individual.  He spoke of her 27 years’ service including 16 as Leader of the Council before becoming a Baroness and subsequently a Government Minister in the last two years.

Councillor Jeanette Thomas formally seconded the Motion and stated that she could not think of a more deserving recipient of the honour.

Councillor Stephen Booth and Phil Bibby spoke in favour of the motion.

It was moved, seconded and RESOLVED that in accordance with the provisions of Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, the Council confers the title of Freeman of the Borough on Baroness Taylor of Stevenage who has rendered 25 years eminent service as a Councillor, including 16 as the Council’s Leader, selflessly dedicating herself to both the town and the Council.

Baroness Taylor’s contributions at County, regional and national levels were recognised when she was asked to join the House of Lords in 2022, and she now holds the role of Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.