Councillor Julie Jones-Evans has announced that she will be stepping back from the role of Vice-Chair of Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council, just days after the clerk dramatically resigned.
As the longest-serving member of the Council, Cllr Jones-Evans has supported several leadership transitions and has served as both Chair and Vice-Chair on multiple occasions.
It was only last week that Island Echo reported that the clerk of Newport and Carisbrooke Community (NCCC), Joshua Tombleson, had resigned, citing what he described as ‘sustained breaches of trust, confidence and fair procedure’ within NCCC.
Cllr Jones-Evans will continue to serve as councillor for Newport Central – a role she has held since first being elected in 2008.
Speaking about her decision, which she says reflects a natural moment of adjustment within a newly elected council, Julie has said:
“Being a community councillor is a voluntary role, and like many councils we saw significant change in May, with seven new members joining us. Over the past six months we’ve had time to settle in, build our working relationships and find our collective rhythm. I’m incredibly proud of the positivity, energy and commitment that everyone brings to the table.”
“I took on the Vice-Chair role this year to support Cllr Vix Lowthion in her first year as Chair. We now have a strong, collaborative Council, and I have complete confidence in its leadership and direction. As we move forward with our new Corporate Plan, this feels like the right moment for someone else to take on the Vice-Chair responsibilities.”
Cllr Jones-Evans will continue to focus her time on ward work, local projects and community support:
“My commitment to Newport Central remains as strong as ever. Stepping back from the Vice-Chair role simply allows me to balance my time while continuing to serve residents with the same dedication as always.”
A new Vice-Chair will be elected in accordance with standard procedures at a forthcoming meeting.
