Issue - meetings

To receive such announcements as the Chairman may wish to make to the Council.

Councillor Kendal confirmed he had pleasure in accepting the nomination to serve as Chairman of Hampshire County Council for a second year and in so doing thanked all of his councillor colleagues he had served with over the years, many of whom had now retired.  The Chairman also extended thanks to the Chief Executive and his staff for their work, not only in the challenging circumstances of the last 15 months, but as also indicated by the numerous awards received.  In particular the Chairman commented on John Coughlan who retires shortly after his successful tenure as Chief Executive, a position he has held since 2015.  The Chairman wished the Chief Executive the very in the years ahead and a very happy retirement. 

The Chairman commented on the many attributes of the County of Hampshire such as two National Parks, the coastline and beautiful countryside.  The County we have been at the forefront of household waste disposal, recycling plastics and converting non recyclables including plastics to energy, which led to the Chairman’s continuing theme for the year ahead - for a Cleaner, Greener Hampshire led by the County Council – in particular encouraging the use of clean energy wherever possible and to continue to reduce carbon emissions improving air quality to reach carbon neutrality.  The Chairman also commented on the music services offered through Children’s Services and expressed hope that the coming year will allow young people to perform in live concerts to showcase their talents and hard work.

It was with sadness that the Chairman advised the passing of former County Councillor and Honorary Alderman John Waddington who had represented the Ringwood division from 1997 to 2005 following a distinguished career in the insurance industry.  Councillors Peter Chegwyn and Jonathan Glen paid tribute and a minute’s silence was observed as a mark of respect.