Role and function of the Chair
The Chair of the Council is elected by the Council at the Council Annual Meeting. The Chair, or in their absence, the Vice-Chair undertakes the following roles and functions.
- Uphold and promote the purposes of the Constitution.
- Preside over meetings of the Council so that its business can be carried out efficiently and with regard to the rights of councillors and the interests of the community.
- Ensure that the Council meeting is a forum for the debate of matters of concern to the local community and the place at which members are able to hold each other to account.
- Promote public involvement in the Council’s activities.
- Be the conscience of the Council.
They also attend civic and ceremonial functions as the Council and the Chair determine appropriate, for example to:
- Preside over citizenship ceremonies.
- Present awards.
- Officially open new buildings and projects.
- Attend twinning events.
- Attend funerals of councillors and officers who die in service and civic dignitaries past and present.
An allowance is given to cover the expenses of the Chair and Vice-Chair.
In the case of doubt as to what does and does not constitute a civic or ceremonial function, the final decision shall rest with the monitoring officer following discussion with the Chair/Vice-Chair.
Any invitations to the Chair should be sent to Chair@cambridgeshire.gov.uk
