The Role of the Chair of Council

Photograph of Councillor Simon Dowling

The Chair of Horsforth Town Council is elected each year at the first meeting of Council. In 2023-24 our Chair is Councillor Simon Dowling, who has taken up the role from Councillor Tracy Stones, Chair of Council in 2022-23.

The Chair is responsible for ensuring that Council makes lawful decisions by managing Full Council meetings. The Chair is often the public face of the council at events such as the Christmas Switch On or the Remembrance Service and has a small allowance to facilitate this civic role.

The Chair works closely with the Officers of the Council who provide her with accurate and up to date legislation guidance.