LevellerLive

We reported in the Leveller for July that Ric Pallister had decided to stand down as Leader of South Somerset District Councillor. After seven years as Leader and with elections due to be held for Somerset’s District councils next May, Mr Pallister wanted to give a new leader time to get their feet under the table before those elections took place. This morning it was confirmed that Ilminster Councillor Val Keitch has been elected as the new Leader of South Somerset District Council.

Her appointment, which will come into effect from 1 September 2018, was confirmed at a meeting of Full Council on Thursday 19 July as Cllr Ric Pallister, who has served as Leader for the past seven years steps down.

Councillor Keitch acknowledged the challenges ahead “The Council in line with all local authorities is facing very challenging times, I look forward to working with all councillors and staff to ensure that we continue on the path we have set for facing those financial challenges.”

Meanwhile Cllr Mike Lewis, Conservative Leader at South Somerset District Council, offered his thanks to the former Leader “I really want to say thank you to Ric. Ric has treated us in the Conservative group with respect and involved us in the decisions he’s had to make on a range of important issues. It’s not just locally that he has made his mark but he has represented this council on the national stage and the significance of the work he has overseen cannot be underestimated.”

South Somerset District Council currently has no party in control, the LibDems govern by virtue of being the largest party.