Prior to the commencement of the meeting the Chair announced with great sadness the passing of Councillor Leanne Kennedy. Leanne was one of the Councillors representing the Dawdon Division on the Council and was elected in 2017. She said that it was hard to comprehend that someone so young who carried out so much hard work in her local community was no longer with us. Leanne was a truly dedicated and passionate Councillor for her area and represented her community in the only way she knew. She was bright and bubbly and approached everything with an abundance of enthusiasm of wanting to do her very best for the many people, groups and community organisations she was involved with. Leanne was an inspiration to many and spent countless hours fundraising and supporting local facilities in her area. She was a huge advocate and supporter for children and young people and was integral to delivering and improving youth provision in Dawdon. Leanne leaves a young family behind which makes this announcement even more tragic. Heartfelt sympathies were sent to Leanne’s family, her friends and her colleagues, at this terribly sad time.
Leaders of all of the political groups paid tribute to Leanne and their thoughts were with Leanne’s family, friends and colleagues.
The Chair also formally reported the deaths of two former colleagues, David Marshall and Tommy Taylor. David served as a County Councillor from 2001 to 2013 and had also served on the former Chester le Street Urban District Council, Chester le Street District Council and Stanley Town Council. Tommy served as a County Councillor for two terms from 1977 to 1985 and again from 2008-2013. He had also served on Wear Valley District Council between 2003-2009. Both David and Tommy were made Honorary Alderman in 2013.
Councillor Kay paid tribute to Honorary Alderman Tommy Taylor.
The Council then stood for a moments reflection in remembering Leanne, David and Tommy.