Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Corporate Manager Democratic and Civic Support.

The report of the Corporate Manager Democratic and Civic Support was submitted setting out a proposal to offer the Freedom of the City to Mrs Yolonda Henson in recognition of her dedication to the serving the City for over 32 years of elected representation. It also suggested that the Freedom of the City be offered to Jo Pavey (the athlete), as well as Liam Tancock (the swimmer) for their outstanding services to the field of sport which had led to Exeter’s name being known around the world as one which supports sport.

The report also gave details of an on-line petition suggesting that the Freedom of the City be given to Chris Martin (of Coldplay) as well as suggesting that future nominations for such an honour be considered against set criteria.

The Leader supported a list of criteria against which future nominations could be considered.

In response to a Member, the Corporate Manager Democratic and Civic Support clarified that about half a dozen people over the past couple of decades had been given Freedom of the City.

RECOMMENDED to Council that:-

(1)        the title of Honorary Freeman of the City Status be conferred on Mrs Yolonda Henson, Mrs Jo Pavey and Mr Liam Tancock; and

(2)        the Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor be requested to convene an Extraordinary Meeting of the Council to be held on the rising of the ordinary meeting on 15 October 2014, for the purpose of passing the appropriate resolution under Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972.