‘We won’t make promises we can’t keep’ says Wakefield's new Reform UK leader
Reform took firm control of the authority after winning 58 out of 63 council seats following polling on May 7.
The new Reform leader of Wakefield Council said “we won’t be making promises we can’t keep” ahead of his party officially taking control of the authority.
Karl Johnson is set to be confirmed as the council’s new leader at a meeting on Wednesday after Reform swept to power at the local elections earlier this month.
Coun Johnson, who was also elected as the party’s Wakefield group leader last week, said: “We’ve heard the message that people want change loud and clear.
“We’re going to be working round the clock to deliver that for you.
“The Wakefield district has suffered from years of decline.
“We’re not going to make promises we can’t keep, pretend we can sort everything out overnight, or spend money that the council can’t afford.
“This is a new leadership team you can trust.”
Reform took firm control of the authority after winning 58 out of 63 council seats following polling on May 7.
Labour, in continuous control in Wakefield since 1974, was left with just one seat.
The Liberal Democrats won two seats and the Conservtives and the Green Party won a single seat each.
New cabinet portfolio holders are also expected to be confirmed at the council’s annual general meeting and mayor making ceremony on May 20.
Coun Johnson, who represents the Stanley and Outwood East ward, said appointments to key positions would be “based on skills and experience, not on politics and personalities.”
He said:“We’re then going to have an intensive period over the next few weeks really getting under the bonnet of how the council is working.
“Once we’ve done that, we’ll share some firm objectives that will be focused on delivery and getting the basics right.
“They will be practical things that will make a positive impact on your life. No gesture politics, short-term gimmicks, or political slogans.
“Thank you to everyone who has wished the new leadership team well over the last few days.
“Real, meaningful change takes time. But we’re determined to deliver it for you.”