Agenda and minutes

Prior to the Commencement of the meeting, a minute’s silence was observed in remembrance of Alderman Brian Bayford who passed away on 09 February 2024.

The meeting will commence with a short service of prayers.

The meeting commenced with a service of prayers led by the Mayor’s Chaplain, Reverend Mike Terry..

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors J M Englefield and D J Hamilton.

To receive any declarations of interest from members in accordance with Standing Orders and the Council’s Code of Conduct.

Councillor S D T Woodward declared a personal interest in item 4(1) on the agenda as he is the intended recipient of the honorary title.  Councillor Woodward remained in the Chamber during the debate but did not vote on the item.

Members are advised that Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972 provides that the office of Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Fareham may be conferred in recognition of eminent services to the Council and the Borough.  Such a proposal must be supported by not less than two thirds of the members voting on the proposal at the meeting.

That Seán D T Woodward be admitted to the roll of Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Fareham, upon his retirement as a councillor, in recognition of his eminent services to the Council from 1986 to 2024 and his contribution to the life of the Borough.

Councillor S D T Woodward declared a personal interest in this item as he is the intended recipient of the honorary title.  Councillor Woodward remained in the Chamber during the debate but did not vote on the item.

The Mayor announced that this special meeting of the Council, convened in accordance with section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, was to consider the investiture of Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Fareham on Seán Woodward.

The following motion was proposed by Councillor N J Walker and seconded by Councillor Mrs C L A Hockley:

“That Seán D T Woodward be admitted to the Roll of Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Fareham, upon his retirement as a Councillor, in recognition and acknowledgement of his eminent services to Fareham Borough Council from 1986 to 2024 and his contribution to the life of the Borough”.

In reaching its decision, the Council took account of Seán Woodward’s service as a Councillor and the contribution he has made to the life of the Borough.

During the debate, Councillors N Walker, Mrs C L A Hockley, Mrs P M Bryant, N Gregory, Mrs S Bayford, S Martin, M Ford, Ms J Burton, Mrs S Walker and D Foot addressed the meeting.

On being put to the meeting, the motion was declared carried unanimously.

RESOLVED that Seán Woodward be admitted to the Roll of Honorary Freemen of the Borough of Fareham, upon his retirement as a Councillor, in recognition and acknowledgement of his eminent services to Fareham Borough Council from 1986 to 2024 and his contribution to the life of the Borough.

Upon the Motion being carried, the Mayor presented Seán Woodward with a formal document commemorating the grant of office, together with a scroll citation and the badge of office.  Seán was invited to sign the Roll of Honour, duly witnessed by the Mayor and the Chief Executive Officer.

Seán addressed the Council in reply.  

The Mayor then concluded the meeting.