THE Mid Devon Liberal Democrats have announced their Cabinet team at Mid Devon District Council (MDDC), underscoring their commitment to the Council’s Corporate Plan 2024–2028 and the priorities of local communities.

Following their appointments to the Devon County Council Cabinet, Cllrs Simon Clist and James Buczkowski have stepped down from their MDDC Cabinet roles.

Over the past two years, Cllr Buczkowski and Cllr Clist have driven significant improvements in their respective roles, making Mid Devon a model for sustainable local government.

As Cabinet Member for Finance, Governance and Risk, Cllr Buczkowski delivered balanced budgets in consecutive years without dipping into reserves, restoring confidence in the Council’s finances and ensuring greater transparency and accountability. As Cabinet Member for Housing, Property and Assets, Cllr Clist saw Mid Devon’s social housing projects win national awards and recognition, with innovative net-zero developments and several nominations for excellence in construction, sustainability, and community benefit.

Both now bring take expertise to the county level. Cllr Clist will also be stepping down as Deputy Leader of Mid Devon District Council.

To maintain momentum on their delivery of the Corporate Plan, the LibDem group has made the following appointments:

• Cllr John Downes (Crediton Boniface) has been appointed Cabinet Member for Finance, Governance and Risk.

• Cllr Jane Lock (Canonsleigh) has been appointed Cabinet Member for Housing, Property and Assets (transitioning from People Development), and is also stepping down as Deputy Leader.

• Cllr Matt Fletcher (Cullompton Vale) has been appointed Cabinet Member for People Development. Cllr Luke Taylor, Liberal Democrat Leader of Mid Devon District Council, said: “Our new Cabinet team is ready to deliver on the bold ambitions of the Corporate Plan, which reflects the priorities and aspirations of our residents. I want to express my deep gratitude to Simon and James for their outstanding work, and to both Simon Clist and Jane Lock for their steadfast support as Joint Deputy Leaders.”

Cllr John Downes, said: “It is an honour to take on this responsibility at such a pivotal time. I would like to thank James for his dedication and for setting such a high bar in financial management.

“My focus will be on prudent, transparent budgeting and on supporting the Council’s commitment to delivering high-quality, efficient services throughout this period of transition. In the short time that James has overseen the Council’s finances, he has steered us out of the turbulent waters we inherited from the previous administration and brought us to the balanced and stable position we enjoy today.”

Cllr Jane Lock, new Cabinet Member for Housing, Property and Assets, added: “Having served as Cabinet Member for People Development, I am now focused on delivering our housing priorities. We will continue to invest in energy-efficient, affordable homes and maximise the value of our community assets.”

Cllr Matt Fletcher, new Cabinet Member for People Development, commented: “Building on Cllr Lock’s excellent work, I am committed to championing the development and wellbeing of our staff and residents. By supporting our workforce and promoting equality of opportunity, we will ensure everyone in Mid Devon can thrive.”

With Liberal Democrats represented in Parliament, Devon County Council, and Mid Devon District Council, the LibDems say there is now a connected focus on improvement at every level of local government in the region.

They claim that the Lib Dems’ performance at the polls is widely seen as a vote of confidence in their community-focused approach and effective stewardship.

Cllr Taylor summarised: “With strong Lib Dem leadership at every level and the highest share of votes in the recent county elections in Mid and Central Devon, where we secured 37 per cent of the vote, it’s clear that Mid Devon residents believe only the Liberal Democrats can be trusted to deliver a fairer and more prosperous future for all.”