The authority in Horsham has selected its newest presiding officer.
Joanne Knowles, who represents the Cowfold, Shermanbury and West Grinstead area on behalf of the Liberal Democrats, was presented with the ceremonial chains of office during Wednesday’s full council meeting on April 29.
She succeeded Roffey North Liberal Democrat councillor Tony Bevis in the role, while Nigel Emery from Holbrook West, also a Liberal Democrat, was named vice-chairman.
Cllr Knowles labelled her appointment an honour and praised Cllr Bevis for providing what she described as a masterclass in chairmanship throughout his time in the position.
She said her colleagues entrusting her with this responsibility represented both a privilege and a responsibility she intended to fulfil wholeheartedly.
Her main ambition for the twelve months ahead centres on encouraging young people who are neither employed nor in education to take part in voluntary activities, which she believes will help them develop confidence, learn new skills and improve their employment opportunities.
Ms Knowles revealed that approximately ten percent of those aged between 19 and 24 living in the district fell into this category, placing the area second only to Crawley in the county.
She expressed her desire to raise awareness of the vital role played by volunteers and community groups while demonstrating how young people are already creating positive results for themselves, others and the environment. She added that such schemes contributed to the district’s economic wellbeing and social cohesion.
A number of changes to the cabinet also took place.
Jay Mercer vacated his cabinet brief overseeing environmental health, recycling and waste because of increased responsibilities as his group’s leader at West Sussex County Council. He will remain as a district councillor.
Cllr Mercer was replaced by Councillor David Skipp, while Councillor Anthony Frankland took on the cabinet portfolio for well-being, culture and green spaces, and Councillor John Olson assumed responsibility for performance, customer service and communications.