Disappointment as Wrexham Council’s leadership fails to cut number of highest paid councillors

DISAPPOINTMENT has been expressed after Wrexham Council’s ruling administration failed to reduce the number of the highest paid councillors.
The amount of members sitting on the authority’s executive board recently dropped from ten to nine following the resignation of lead member for children’s services Bill Baldwin.
It came after he was accused of sharing racist posts on his Facebook account.
Dana Davies, the leader of the Labour group, said it presented an opportunity to cut the number of portfolio holders, who each earn around £30,000 a year, on a permanent basis.
However, the coalition of independents and Conservatives who run the council have chosen to appoint Marchwiel representative John Pritchard to fill the vacancy instead.
Speaking at a meeting of all 52 councillors held to discuss nominations yesterday, Cllr Davies criticised the move.
She said: “The Labour group have laid out our reasons for a reduction to the membership of the executive board on many occasions.
“Here was an opportunity presented to reduce from ten to nine lead members and review the portfolio distribution for a more effective executive.
“When opportunities arise and they’re not acted upon, it’s difficult to understand the reason behind this decision.
“Previous responses along the lines of “If I could, I would” don’t resonate now as this decision demonstrates you could, but you didn’t.
“We’re really disappointed that we’re not taking advantage that the executive board should remain at nine.”
Despite the criticism, Cllr Pritchard’s appointment was approved with 24 votes in favour and 12 against, with eight abstentions.
He will now take on the portfolio for anti-poverty and youth services with Cllr Andrew Atkinson moving over to children’s services.
Council leader Mark Pritchard did not respond to the comments made by Cllr Davies during the debate.
But speaking afterwards, he said: “I have liaised with colleagues on the executive board and have made the changes to portfolio holders which will take immediate effect.
“I know both will find the roles interesting and challenging and will be working for the benefit of all young people in Wrexham.”
Cllr John Pritchard said: “I am pleased to be joining the executive of Wrexham Council and look forward to working with officers and members on key plans and strategies surrounding anti-poverty and youth services.
“They’re very important areas that include youth justice, equalities, community safety and access to leisure and cultural activities.”

By Liam Randall – Local Democracy Reporter