It is not only the leader of City of York Council who is stepping down at the May elections.
Two other long-serving councillors are going too.
Councillors Sue Hunter and James Barker are joining leader Keith Aspden in not standing for re-election.
Cllr Nigel Ayre has been chosen as the new Lib Dem group leader.
Cllr Hunter, who has represented Westfield ward since 2015, has decided to step down to focus on her new civic role as Sheriff of York and her booming local florist business.
“I would like to thank the residents of Westfield for putting their trust in me, and of course my ward colleagues with whom I have served our community for the last 8 years. I am proud of our work, including investing in Acomb Front Street and amazing local organisations, as well as addressing the day-to-day local concerns of our residents.
“I am very much looking forward to continuing to serve our city in my new role as Sheriff of York Elect in what will no doubt be an enjoyable and eventful year in this historic office representing our city and promoting positive change.”
Cllr Barker has also decided not to seek re-election in May, having served as a councillor for Rural West York since 2019. Covid and more recently the war in Ukraine have made increasing demands on reservists like James.
He said: “I have very much enjoyed the four years of service I have been able to give my local community as a councillor.
“Together with my colleague Councillor Anne Hook, we have secured significant investment in the ward, addressed speeding concerns, fixed roads, protected our green space, amongst so many more actions.
“As my reservist duties are taking up increasingly more time, I believe it’s right to give another local champion the opportunity to represent our community.
“That said, as any retired Councillor will tell you, you never really leave working for your community, and I will continue to keep a watchful eye on activity in Rural West York and address any concerns residents may have.”
[tptn_list limit=3 daily=1 hour_range=1]