New men for top Northants council executive roles announced after deputy leader's failed challenge
North Northants Council’s leader Martin Griffiths has announced a new executive member as well as his deputy.
The reshuffle was expedited by the failed leadership challenge by Cllr Eddie McDonald at a Reform UK party vote last week.
Cllr McDonald stood against his boss Cllr Griffiths, but relinquished his post as number two in the Reform-led unitary council.
In his place Cllr Graham Cheatley will step up as deputy leader – he is currently the executive member for finance, efficiency and change, a portfolio he will retain.
He will get £23,702 for the role of deputy leader.
Joining the executive as member for adults and health partnerships is Cllr Chris Kellett, who represents the Rothwell and Mawsley ward and was a former Conservative Party member.
Cllr Martin Griffiths, leader of the council, said: “I would like to thank Eddie McDonald for the effort he has given during his time on the executive and for his contribution to the council.
"I am pleased to appoint Chris Kellett to the executive. Chris shares my vision for the future of this council, including delivery of our corporate plan, support for the Big 50 ambitions and continuing to strengthen our ‘One Council’ approach.
“He brings passion, commitment and a strong understanding of Northamptonshire and the priorities of our residents. The whole executive is looking forward to working with him in this new role.
"I would also like to welcome Graham into his role as deputy leader and I am sure both Chris and Graham will continue to make a real and lasting positive difference to public services in North Northamptonshire.”
Both councillors will take on these new responsibilities with immediate effect.
Stepping back from the front to the backbench, Cllr McDonald will continue to represent the Gretton and Weldon ward.
Cllr Cheatley said: “It’s a great honour to be appointed as deputy leader of North Northamptonshire Council as we move into the next phase of our development as a local authority.
“We’ve come so far in the past year and I look forward to doing what I can to deliver our corporate plan and strive to make the area the best that it can be.”
Cllr Kellett, who will get £17,130 as an executive member, added: “I’m very proud to take on the role of lead member for adults and health partnerships for the council on the executive.
"This is a vital role on the executive as it plays a key part in improving the health and care needs of some of our most vulnerable people in North Northamptonshire.”
The new chairman of the planning committee will be announced in due course.