The council's ruling Labour administration has elected a new Deputy Group Leader, who will also become the new Deputy Leader of City of York Council at next month's Annual Council meeting.
The election follows a decision by Councillor Pete Kilbane to step back from the role of Deputy Leader, to free up time to focus on other commitments outside the council.
He is succeeded by experienced Executive Member, Cllr Bob Webb, who has led the council's Children's Services to 'outstanding', progressed a pledge to mobilise the city to deliver free school meals in primary schools, and overseen improvements to the city's Corporate Parenting Board, including greater representation for children in care.
Labour's Deputy Group Leader, Cllr Bob Webb said:
"I'm honoured to be chosen by my Labour colleagues to take on this hugely important role as we approach the next local elections in May 2027. I've been fortunate to work closely alongside Cllr Kilbane on the Executive since 2023 so understand well the role I'm taking on.
"Over the next year I will be leading on taking our message out to the city and highlighting the benefits of having a Labour Council, as well as reminding residents of the false promises of Reform, and the stagnation and 'just do nothing' approach they would get under the Liberal Democrat Party".
Councillor Pete Kilbane said:
"The last few years have been a huge but rewarding challenge as we focused the council on delivering good services to its residents, despite shrinking budgets. We've achieved a great deal and I'm confident the council is now in far better shape than it was in 2023 when we came into power. It's great to be able to pass on the baton with confidence.
"I will still be working hard on the Council Executive to deliver the Labour administration's priorities, but will be using any freed-up time I have to work on social and economic projects outside of this role".
Labour Council Leader, Cllr Claire Douglas said:
"I express my deep thanks to Pete for his huge commitment to the city as Deputy Council Leader over the past three years. The hours he has given to the role and his hugely positive impact are immeasurable. I'm pleased that he's agreed to remain part of my Executive.
"I welcome Bob to his new role and look forward to working more closely with him over the next year. Bob has demonstrated the leadership skills needed to succeed in this role and I have no doubt of the valuable contribution he will make to the city".
