A public consultation exercise is underway on a new leadership model for Cheshire East Council. People have until November 12th to have their say on the options for future executive arrangements.
The Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 requires local authorities to choose one of two new models of leadership: either a directly-elected mayor or a strong leader and cabinet, which the Council already has. The government has indicated it is reviewing the legislation.
The Council needs to decide on the change to a leader or elected mayor, with a four-year term of office, by December 2010.
There is little difference between what a leader and an elected mayor can do once in office. The main differences are the method of selection and the ability to remove him/her. The leader is a councillor who is selected, appointed and can be removed by the Council. An elected mayor is voted for by the people of Cheshire East and therefore does not need to be a councillor. Once appointed, they would hold the position for four years until the next election.
Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity, said: "I hope that people will get involved in this consultation and let us know their views on which leadership model they prefer and why.
"All contributions will be taken into consideration before a final decision is made."
For more information people should go to www.cheshireeast.gov.uk, email Paul Jones, Democratic Services Team Leader, or contact him on 01270 686458.
