Thursday 10th February 2011

He was the man who oversaw the transformation of a local Council in the fastest time in Local Government history and now the Leader of North East Derbyshire District Council has received the country’s top councilor honour.

Described as 'visionary' by the Head of the LGiU, Cllr Graham Baxter MBE was declared 'Council Leader of the Year' at a London awards ceremony.

Cllr Baxter became Leader in 2004, at a time when the council had been described as 'weak'. In 2008 it was rated 'excellent'. It has since been nominated twice as 'Most improved Council' at the national awards event and has recently announced plans to merge some services with Bolsover council in an attempt to cut costs.

Cllr Graham Baxter, praised for his dedication to 'making a real difference to the lives of local people', has served as a member for Dronfield North on North East Derbyshire District Council for 28 years, and has been Leader of the Council since 2004.He was awarded the MBE in 2010.

In presenting the award to Cllr Baxter at a ceremony in London on Tuesday 8th February, Chief Executive of the LGiU Andy Sawford said: "He is a leader who has a belief in open government, community involvement and transformation. During his six years as leader he has shown strength of character and determination to provide excellent services that make a real difference to the lives of local citizens.

"The shortlist was exemplary, however the judges felt that of all the nominees Cllr Baxter's leadership has brought about evidence of real transformation. He has really stepped up to the role of being Leader and brought clear vision to the Council."

Cllr Baxter said: "This is a real honour, but it would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of all councillors and officers at North East Derbyshire District Council.

"We have a great team approach at the council and this spirit will be crucial to the challenging months and years ahead as we focus on protecting services for local people in the light of the tough financial climate."

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