Exeter’s new portfolio holders will focus on key priorities facing the city
Published: 17 May 2022
Council Leader Phil Bialyk said he is focussing on the priorities for the year ahead after the city’s new Executive was formally approved by Council.
The portfolio holders were unveiled during Annual Council at the Guildhall and follow the City Council’s local elections earlier this month.
Cllr Bialyk said his Executive would work hard over the next year to meet people’s expectations in the city over climate change, recycling and waste, and helping residents with the cost of living crisis.
The Portfolio Holders are:
- Leader - Cllr Phil Bialyk
- Deputy Leader, Culture, Corporate & Democratic Services - Cllr Laura Wright
- Climate Change - Cllr Duncan Wood
- Recycling & Waterways - Cllr Ruth Williams
- Council Housing Development and Support Services - Cllr Barbara Denning
- Leisure Services & Physical Activity - Cllr Josie Parkhouse
- City Management & Environmental Services - Cllr Amal Ghusain
- City Development & Chair of Planning Committee - Cllr Emma Morse
- Communities & Homelessness Prevention - Cllr Martin Pearce
- The Member Champions are:
- Community Engagement & Support Services - Cllr Naima Allcock
- Net Zero Exeter 2030 - Cllr Zion Lights
Cllr Bialyk said: “I have had great service from our previously portfolio holders and they have done us proud.
“But my new cabinet for the ensuing year has a different look to it, with different responsibilities for nearly all members. We need to step up and meet the challenges that are now before us following Covid - not least of which is the cost of living crisis which we are all facing.
“I need to refocus on climate change, and in particular recycling and waste. I understand that people have been experiencing delays with the food waste roll-out, and just saying we can’t get the vehicles and we can’t get the staff isn’t good enough – people are expecting us to do more. This is the challenge that I will be endeavouring to meet, together with many others.
“We also recognise the great success we have already had with St Sidwell’s Point, our housing programme, our work with our communities, UNESCO City of Literature status and the many other great things we are all so proud of. We need to keep everything in perspective.
“Hard work is the message I am giving to my new team, and I know full well that with the youth and enthusiasm they bring we will be able to deliver for Exeter.”
The meeting also saw Cllr Yolonda Henson become the new Lord Mayor of Exeter and Cllr Rob Newby Deputy Lord Mayor.