Havering Council has a new Leader and Mayor following the local elections in May.
Cllr Damian White has been appointed the new Leader of Havering Council. Cllr White, who has been a councillor for eight years, has replaced Cllr Roger Ramsey who stood down as Council Leader after four years.
Cllr Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said:
“It is with immense pride and honour that I have been appointed as the Leader of Havering Council. This is one of the best roles that anybody could wish for and I intend to do my best for the people of Havering.
“Throughout my political career, I have always worked hard to maintain, protect and improve frontline services. As Leader of the Council, despite tough budget pressures, I am determined to deliver for residents, and ensure the borough remains a great place to work live and visit.
“I would like to thank my predecessor, Cllr Roger Ramsey, for the great progress the Council has made, and for his strong leadership over the last four years. His legacy, which includes the new and impressive Sapphire Ice and Leisure in Romford, will benefit residents in Havering long into the future.”
Cllr Robert Benham was named Deputy Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Education, Children and Families, while other key positions went to Cllr Joshua Chapman who was chosen as Lead Member for Housing; Cllr Viddy Persuad, named Lead Member for Public Protection and Safety; Cllr Osman Dervish who was chosen as Lead Member for Environment; and Cllr Jason Frost, who will hold the portfolio of Lead Member for Health and Adult Care.
Local councillors take on senior roles
Cllr Roger Ramsey, former leader and Emerson Park ward councillor, will continue in the cabinet and bring a wealth of experience to the Finance and Property portfolio.
Cllr Bob Perry, newly elected councillor for Emerson Park ward, has taken on the important role of Chairman of the Crime and Disorder committee. This committee plays a key role in the councils work, scrutinising how the council works with the police and other agencies in tackling crime and anti-social behaviour.
Cllr John Mylod, who has been re-elected in Saint Andrews ward, is Chairman of the Environment Overview committee. In this role he ensures that the council is focused on delivery high quality local services in all of our streets and parks.
Cllr Matt Sutton (Emerson Park ward), sits on the Environment Overview Committee to support Cllr Mylod's work, and is Vice Chair of Audit Committee, which monitors the risk management of the council and approves the annual financial statements of the council.
Mayor Making
Cllr Dilip Patel, who represents Mawneys ward, was elected to be Mayor of Havering for the coming year having served the last year as Deputy Mayor. He was first elected in 2014 and will be accompanied by his wife, Councillor Nisha Patel, who represents Romford Town, as his Mayoress for the year.
Cllr Dilip Patel, said:
“I have discovered a lot about Havering whilst Deputy Mayor and look forward to my year in office and in particular continuing to meet so many local people and voluntary organisations.
“My chosen charity will be announced in due course but I encourage all small charities registered in Havering to get in touch as I’m keen to support the valuable work they all do.”
Cllr Michael Deon-Burton, who represents South Hornchurch ward, was named as Deputy Mayor.