SOLIHULL Council’s new leader says she has a big job to do.
Councillor Karen Grinsell took over the reigns as leader from Councillor Ian Courts who announced he was stepping down after six years.
Writing her first message as leader Coun Grinsell said: “I am extremely honoured to be the new leader of Solihull Council.
“As anyone who knows me will tell you, I love our borough and I’m really proud to call it home. I’ve lived and worked here for a long time now and I have spent the last 13 years as a councillor for Shirley East working hard to improve the lives of everyone in Solihull.
“Six years ago, I was the first woman to become deputy leader. Now, I am incredibly proud to be the first woman to lead this Council.
“As I take on this role you will see new ideas from me, but you will also see stability, continuity, and the strong leadership that has been the proud hallmark of this Council for many years now.”
She said she will continue in her role as cabinet member for children and education.
Coun Grinsell said she hopes the strong community feeling throughout the borough continues and she wants to tighten the bond between the Council and the people it serves.
She said: “Our communities are strong here in Solihull. I know there is a real sense of togetherness amongst the residents of Shirley, where I am a ward councillor, but I also know that is equally true all over the borough. I have spent a huge amount of time at events, meeting people and community groups and visiting people and businesses in every corner of Solihull, so I know it isn’t unique to any one place.
“That feeling of community is just as strong in Chelmsley Wood, Meriden, Olton, Dickens Heath, Fordbridge, and every other village, town, and urban centre we have.
“I want to engage those communities as Leader and tighten the bond between the Council and the people that we serve. I know that the best way to do this is by delivering good services for residents and working hard to improve their lives.
“Whether that means through supporting them through things like Family Hubs, improving education and training opportunities for young people, or protecting our green belt. I have always prided myself on listening to people and hearing what their priorities are. As Leader I will keep doing just that.”
Coun Grinsell said she also wants to deepen ties with the business community to get more investment coming into the borough and more jobs for residents.
She added: “It has been straight down to business and I will not let up. I have a good, strong team around me in Cabinet, with a vast amount of experience in local government and business. Together we will do all we can, in the best interests of our residents of Solihull.”
Coun Courts is also said to be taking up the role as deputy leader.
