Consideration was given to a report from the Governance Lead (East) briefing the Shadow Council on a number of Civic and Ceremonial Issues, and requesting the Council to identify any specific matters to be pursued for retention or adoption from April 2009.
During the ensuing debate the Leader of the Council responded to a number of questions relating to the history and status of local Mayors in Cheshire East, the inclusion of Aldermen and Freemen in considerations and differences in public perception of a Mayor or Chairman,
RESOLVED - That
1 the Council agrees in principle to submit a Petition for the grant of a Charter conferring Borough status on Cheshire East Unitary Council from April 2009.
2 approval should be sought to the adoption of an appropriate Coat of Arms for the Authority.
3 the three current Borough Councils and Cheshire County Council be invited to support the Petition for Borough status for Cheshire East, and to identify as soon as possible any proposals for the continuation of their existing rights and privileges beyond vesting day.
4 The position concerning Honorary Aldermen, Honorary Freemen and the Cheshire Lieutenancy be noted at this stage.
5 The Governance and Constitution Committee be authorised to take forward the detailed arrangements for the grant of Borough Status and a Coat of Arms, and to respond on behalf of the Council to any proposals for the preservation of existing rights and privileges, including recognition of the existing Honorary Freemen of outgoing authorities in consultation with the Department for Communities and Local Government.
6 Periodic progress reports be made by the Committee to this Council.