Cotswold District Council Leader, Cllr Mike Evemy, has appointed Cllr Paul Evans to the cabinet as part of a light-touch change to the authority’s political leadership.
Cllr Evans, recently elected to represent The Beeches ward, has been appointed Cabinet Member for Health and Communities. He will oversee public health matters, safeguarding and Community Safety Partnership, liaison with the third sector, council work related to young and elderly residents.
The rest of the cabinet is unchanged. This means some adjustments to portfolio responsibilities, but there are no other personnel changes. Current chair Cllr Mark Harris was re-elected, and vice-chair Cllr Ray Brassington was re-appointed.
Cllr Evemy said: “I’m pleased to welcome Cllr Evans to the cabinet. He brings fresh energy and a strong commitment to our communities, and I know he will play a key role in advancing our work on health, wellbeing and community safety across the district.”
At the same meeting, former council leader Cllr Joe Harris announced he will step down as ward councillor for St Michael’s ward in Cirencester.
Cllr Harris, who was first elected in 2011 and served as leader from 2019 to 2025, is stepping down to focus on his career outside local government.
Cllr Evemy said: “It has been a real privilege to work alongside Cllr Harris over the years. From being elected aged just 18 to serving as Leader until last year, he has always shown a deep commitment to public service and to improving the lives of residents.
“He can be incredibly proud of everything he has achieved, and we wish him all the best as he takes his next steps beyond the Council.”
A notice of election will follow for the St Michael’s ward.