Deputy drops council role after election

Steve Waight has resigned as the cabinet member for resources at Worthing Borough Council bringing an end to 15 years as a member of the local authority.

The Police and Crime Panel refused to recommend his appointment last month siting time constraints with his council role.

Katy Bourne still went ahead with the appointment bringing in Mr Waite on a £45,000 a year salary.

Panel chairman Brad Watson said the panel felt that he would not be able to devote enough time to the role.

Mr Waight will continue in his role as a West Sussex county councillor.

On April 4 the Panel will be asked to confirm Mrs Bourne’s selection of a new chief finance officer and a chief executive officer.

The panel includes Hastings Borough Councillor Trevor Webb.

Mr Watson said: “There was a hint in the confirmation hearing Mr Waite would step down.

“We welcome the move as he will have less commitment to his local council role.

“I understand he will continue at county which will have a strategic value for this role.

“It is still only early days but there is much greater partnerships in operation than before.”

Mrs Bourne beat Hastings councillor Godfrey Daniel during the election which attracted a very low turnout of just 15 per cent. Critics dismissed the election as a Conservative HQ gimmick and many people chose not to vote in protest against the overall process which has cost upwards of £100million nationwide.