NALC elects new chair

Cllr Keith Stevens was elected as the new chair of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC).

Cllr Stevens spoke to NALC's National Assembly on his priorities, which include:

• Ensuring local (parish and town) councils are recognised as the first tier of local government.
• Transforming the organisation and services with a focus on being digital-first.
• Extending engagement with councils to grow membership.

Cllr Stevens, NALC chair, said: "I look forward to working with NALC's new leadership and committees, as well as our staff and county associations, to continue to promote and support local councils.

"Local councils make a change in our communities. And local councils, which, I am sure you would agree, have never been more vital."

Cllr Stevens takes over from Cllr Sue Baxter, Worcestershire Association of Local Councils, who was recently appointed vice-president and will continue to play an active role in NALC's work.