Report backs council leader's controversial leadership role

VINDICATED – that is the feeling of Rugby Borough Council leader Craig Humphrey after a glowing report heaped praise on the council and its controversial management structure.

Coun Humphrey was widely criticised when he added some the the chief executive's roles to his job as council leader back in 2010.

It is a lead set to be followed by Birmingham City Council and one singled out for praise by an independent report into the council by the Local Government Association (LGA).

The report to the council said: “The leader of the council provides you with a strong and progressive focal point.

“It is important for the council to reflect upon the value he brings. That dynamic is so important to the positive influence of a local authority and this foundation has allowed you to deliver a whole range of benefits.

“The council has sometimes been an ‘apologist’ for the way it has organised itself politically and managerially; our strong view is that you shouldn’t be. It has worked for you so now build upon that.”

Coun Humphrey was the first council leader in the country to permanently take on the political duties of the chief executive three years ago.

At the time, the move was widely condemned by opposing councillors and members of the public as being an undemocratic blurring of the lines between elected and employed officials.

Under the changes Ian Davis and Andrew Gabbitas were appointed executive directors.

Coun Humphrey said: “Obviously I took a lot of personal abuse three years ago, and this is a vindication that this authority – and the leadership that the directors and I provide – is on the right track.

“I knew we were doing the right thing, and it’s nice to have that confirmed independently and be told the value I bring should be recognised.

“It's somewhat heartening to see that Birmingham City Council has announced that it is not going to replace its chief executive – that's the largest local authority in Europe following the lead that Rugby set three years ago.”

The report was conducted by LGA members alongside councillors and senior officers from other councils. Visit www.rugby.gov.uk to see the full review.

Residents will have an opportunity to quiz Coun Humphrey at an event at Warwickshire College on November 11, which will also be attended by representatives of the police, county council and health services.

Visit warwickshire.gov.uk/rugbyarea for more information.

- See the page opposite for our detailed look at the LGA review of the borough council.

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