At the Special Council Meeting held on 22 May 2025 Council passed the following resolution:
‘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 OBE who has rendered 27 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.’
Minutes:
Cllr Richard Henry, Leader of the Council, praised Baroness Taylor as a true champion of Stevenage whose leadership set the standard for community-focused politics. He credited her with laying the foundation for many of the Borough’s successes and noted her ongoing national influence.
Cllr Henry referred to Baroness Taylor’s unwavering work ethic, principled stance on public service, and her ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
Chief Executive, Tom Pike reflected on Baroness Taylor’s national and local legacy, describing her as someone who embodied the values of public service. He emphasised how her leadership contributed to innovation within council services and drove forward improvements in housing, sustainability, and social justice.
Leader of the Opposition, Cllr Stephen Booth expressed cross-party admiration, noting that although their politics often differed, he held great respect for Baroness Taylor’s consistency, integrity, and dedication to the town.
A number of other tributes were given by Members who expressed their appreciation for Baroness Sharon Taylor’s enduring commitment to Stevenage. They shared personal anecdotes about Baroness Taylor’s unwavering work ethic, principled stance on public service, and her ability to remain calm and focused under pressure. She was also commended for mentoring younger councillors and officers, and for always ensuring residents' voices were heard at every level.
Alderman Michael Downing commended Baroness Taylor’s dedication to Stevenage and in particular the Symonds Green Ward and her ability to balance national responsibilities with grassroots service.
Former Councillor and Mayor, John Lloyd shared recollections from his time serving alongside Baroness Taylor at both Stevenage Borough and Hertfordshire County Councils. He paid tribute to her dedication to veterans, and in championing the Royal Anglian Regiment’s march through Stevenage, supporting the creation of a Veterans’ Champion role, refurbishing the Town’s War Memorial, and funding commemorative railings and benches. Mr. Lloyd offered thanks on behalf of the armed forces and the Royal British Legion.
A number of speakers from the public gallery including Kevin Bonavia, MP for Stevenage, Jim Callaghan from the Labour Party, Adrian Hawkins on behalf of the Local Enterprise Partnership paid tribute to the Baroness. They recalled her proactive approach and collaborative spirit, crediting her influence for the town’s advancement and national recognition and considered the Freeman recognition to be a thoroughly deserved tribute.
A framed scroll was then presented by the Mayor to Baroness Taylor.
Baroness Taylor then read out the Freedom of the Borough Oath and
responded with a speech thanking the council, her colleagues, the people of Stevenage and her family. She reflected on her deep-rooted pride in the town and acknowledged the importance of collaborative leadership. She expressed particular pride in initiatives that had improved lives for vulnerable people, including housing and domestic abuse support. She concluded by reaffirming her ongoing commitment to Stevenage in her new role as a Government Minister in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Baroness Taylor concluded with gratitude for the support shown throughout her journey and thanked the Council for presenting her with the award of Freedom of the Borough.