CONGRATULATIONS to Cllr Russ Bowden on his election as Leader of Warrington Borough Council and the controlling Labour Group in what can be described as a landslide victory.
Hopefully gaining the votes from the vast majority of his group will ensure less political infighting, although politicians being politicians, I won’t hold my breath!
I have known Russ for a number of years and know him to be a hard working local councillor and deputy leader of the council, who has had the difficult task of managing the council’s finances – a near impossible task during these days of austerity – although we have been told by the Government austerity is over – really? It certainly doesn’t feel like it and with the current economic uncertainty caused by all the Brexit chaos, I can’t see things getting much better any time soon.
Having met with Russ today at a local networking event I was able to congratulate him personally and assured him here at warrington-worldwide we will always try and work with anyone who is doing their best for our great town. But we are also here to represent our readers and local residents and will monitor council activities as a “critical friend.”
Meeting Russ in the historic Warrington Club, founded by our great industrialists and business leaders of the past, was most appropriate, although I suspect way back in 1867 card carrying members of the Labour Party would be in short supply.
While traditions carry on, with membership by invitation and a black ball ballot, Russ has no worries about returning, as council leaders, along with the Mayor and Chief Executive receive honorary membership!
Being a local councillor can be a thankless and demanding task and without these people many local issues would go undetected. It certainly takes a great deal of dedication and determination to fulfill the role and we should always keep this in mind when taking them to task! If you respond to criticism and negative comments you are “damned if you do and damned if you don’t!”
One thing I can say about the new leader is every time I have asked a question of Russ I have been given a response. Long may it continue!
Finally I would like to wish former Leader Cllr Terry O’Neill a long and happy retirement from his leadership duties and I am sure he will remain very active as a local member representing the people of Burtonwood.
Great to catch up with @WarringtonBC new leader @CllrRussBowden with @RobJGriffiths at the historic #WarringtonClub pic.twitter.com/dvoNRFC2vQ
— Gary Skentelbery (@GarySkent) November 30, 2018
