At tonight’s Full Council meeting, members voted for a new Chairman. Councillor Karl Love (Ind) has been the Chairman for the last 12 months.
Councillor Geoff Brodie (Ind Lab), said that although he believed Councillor Love had done a great job in the civic part of the role, he thought it was less so in the chamber. He said the only person that could do both roles successfully was former Conservative councillor, Roger Mazillius.
Ian Dore
Councillor Brodie went on to nominate Councillor Ian Dore (Ind Alliance), who he said he felt would do a great job.
His nomination was seconded by Councillor Karen Lucioni.
Others spoke in his favour pointing out Councillor Dore’s military background and involvement with Armed Forces Day.
Karl Love
Councillor Chris Jarman (EI) nominated Councillor Love to continue in the role. He said that Councillor Love represented inclusivity and diversity within the council and his skills in chairing meetings had developed over the past year.
Councillor Ed Blake (Con) echoed Councillor Jarman’s views.
The vote
Members were asked for their votes and Councillor Love received 17 votes, whilst Councillor Dore received 19 votes.
Two members abstained from voting.
Councillor Dore was elected as Chairman of Isle of Wight council for the coming 12 months.
Outgoing message
Councillor Love was given the past-Chairman badge and asked to say a few words. He said the civic role required the Chairman to inspire and educate all those they meet.
“I can’t help feeling a bit disappointed, it’s only natural. But I might be back sometime, who knows!”
He went on to thank his partner, David, who had supported him over the past year.
Appreciation
Councillor Ian Ward (Con) thanked Councillor Love for his time as Chairman. Councillor Andrew Garratt (LibDem) thanked him for all the LGBTQ+ work he has done.
“This is a rainbow island and you have made sure that is absolutely entrenched.”
Councillor John Nicholson (Con) said Councillor Love had chaired meetings with a sense of discipline and humour.
Councillor Brodie thanked Councillor Love for his friendship during the last year, whilst Councillor Brodie was receiving treatment for cancer.
Councillor Jarman gave a profound thank you to Councillor Love for his exemplary Chairmanship, as well as his partner David.
Councillor Joe Robertson (Con) said,
“You have been a real symbol and becon of the Island being forward looking.”
Vice chair
Councillor Blake nominated Councillor Vanessa Churchman (Con) for the role of Vice Chair (which she currently holds) who he said had done an exemplary stint at Vice Chair, always stepping in when chairman couldn’t.
No other nominations were put forward and Councillor Churchman elected as Vice Chair.
Article edit
6.35pm 21st May 2025 – Comments added
6.39pm 21st May 2025 – VC news added
