Babergh council to consider motion for committee system

Babergh District Council currently operates with a cabinet model, but could switch to a committee system under new proposals. 

A motion has been put forward by Councillor Michael Holt for next week's full council meeting to propose a discussion on a return to a committee system at a meeting in January. 

If approved, implementation would commence at the annual council meeting in May 2025.

Michael Holt, who represents Chadacre at Babergh District Council (Image: Babergh District Council) "The motion is to see if there is any appetite within the council for it to be considered," said councillor Michael Holt, who represents the Chadacre ward at the council.

"It is time for it to happen."

Minutes from a meeting in March 2022 show a review of the council's governance model was discussed by councillors. 

It was agreed that some changes could be implemented, but a final decision would be made by the administration elected in the May 2023 elections. 

The matter appears on agendas on two occasions after May 2023 - once in July 2023 and in January 2024. 

Minutes for January 2024 show it was questioned again by Councillor Holt. 

Babergh District Council moved to a leader and cabinet model during the last decade. 

Mr Holt added: "Ultimately it is members' decision about what they want to do. Some may like it, some may not like it. 

"We are elected to represent our residents in our own ward and you want a voice to do that. And it seems that some members feel their voice is not being heard. 

"Without giving them the opportunity, we are not going to know." 

The motion is listed as item 13A on the agenda for the full council meeting, due to take place at 5.30pm on Tuesday, October 29.