At the full council meeting on Tuesday, 24th September, Cllr Kath Perry MBE was elected as the new Leader of South Staffordshire Council. Cllr Perry MBE, who represents Great Wyrley, takes over leadership from Cllr Roger Lees who has decided to step down and retire as Leader whilst continuing his role as a Ward Member for Himley and Swindon.
Cllr Perry MBE brings a wealth of experience to the role of Leader, having first been elected to South Staffordshire Council in 1994. With an impressive 30 years of continuous service, she has proven her dedication to both the Council and the local community through her never wavering commitment to doing her best to help others.
Prior to being elected as Leader, Cllr Perry MBE served on the Council’s Cabinet as Portfolio Holder for Community Services from May 2023 and has previously served as Chairman of the Council from 2006 to 2007. Cllr Perry MBE is an impactful leader with a strong desire to do the best for our communities in the district.
Born and raised in Great Wyrley, Cllr Perry’s fondness of her village has continued to spark her lasting passion for enhancing community wellbeing, protecting the environment, and ensuring South Staffordshire residents have the opportunity to enjoy the highest quality of life. Cllr Perry MBE has also served on Great Wyrley Parish Council for many years as well as being a Staffordshire County Councillor for almost 20 years.
In recognition of her services to the community, Cllr Perry MBE was “overwhelmed and greatly honoured to have been awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours list in 2020”. A touching moment for Cllr Perry MBE and those close to her who attended Buckingham Palace to collect the MBE Award from the now King Charles III.
Cllr Perry MBE expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Council, stating:
“I am incredibly proud and honoured to have been given this opportunity as Leader of South Staffordshire Council. At South Staffordshire Council, our purpose has, and always will be, to fulfil the promises we have made to the people we serve with the utmost integrity and passion and that what we do really matters, and I will endeavour to fulfil that promise to the best of my ability.”