Councillor Michael Jones - Resources Portfolio Holder

Councillor Michael Jones represents the Bunbury ward and lives in the nearby village of Bulkeley. He was elected to Cheshire East Council in May 2011. New to politics, Cllr Jones is now retired following a successful business career and is also a justice of the peace (JP).

His interests include travel, finance, sport and charities.

Councillor Jones was appointed Resources Portfolio Holder in September 2011.

Portfolio: Resources

Finance; construction of medium term financial strategy and annual budget report; capital programme; capital strategy; reserves strategy; income and funding strategy; treasury management; business management; insurance; audit; democratic services; civic matters; electoral services and member training and development.

What are your priorities within this portfolio?

I became a councillor to deliver for the people of Cheshire East. I have a very strong business background and I believe in the creation of jobs.

It is important to make sure that assets and finances promote the delivery of the best service possible in Cheshire East and I will adopt commercial principles to increase revenue so we can deliver better and stronger services.

Resources is a vehicle for the delivery of the goals of Cheshire East Council and its people.

I am committed to a balanced budget but services in times of need will always take priority. I intend to be very supportive of the Council’s staff and support the commitment that they give.

I am keen on protecting villages, green spaces and the rural economy and I am committed to renewable energies.

What will present the greatest challenge within your portfolio?

My greatest challenge will be continuing to deliver the high quality services that the people of Cheshire East deserve and demand despite a dwindling revenue stream in an economic downturn.

This takes lateral thinking, teamwork with all Cabinet members and an understanding of the assets and skills of Cheshire East Council.

What is your main message to residents?

I dedicate my life to local community service and I will endeavour to deliver value for money at every opportunity, cut costs and create revenues where possible.

This is based on an overriding philosophy of delivering services throughout the whole of Cheshire East.

What is your vision for Cheshire East?

My vision is to deliver for everybody in Cheshire East, of all backgrounds and I want people to believe in Cheshire East and believe in themselves.

How can people contact you?

By email michael.e.jones@cheshireeast.gov.uk, by phone on 01829 720771 or in writing to the Cheshire East Council headquarters at Westfields, Middlewich Road, Sandbach, Cheshire, CW11 1HZ.