With important elections fast approaching on May 1st, I wanted to take a few minutes to address some of the claims being made in leaflets and online—particularly by the Reform Party—and offer a clearer, more accurate picture of how Lincolnshire County Council operates, the challenges we face, and the thoughtful decisions that underpin our local services.

1. Is Lincolnshire County Council “Broken”? Absolutely Not.

Reform’s leaflets suggest our County Council is broken. I strongly disagree.

Lincolnshire County Council delivers complex services under tight financial pressures—from adult social care and children’s services to education, transport, and even the fire service. Despite the challenges, our council continues to maintain a balanced budget, meets legal obligations, and invests in long-term infrastructure.

Yes, we have borrowing—£460 million, to be exact—but this is strategic borrowing used for vital projects like bypasses, special schools, and road maintenance. Without it, those improvements simply wouldn’t happen. That borrowing is legally permitted, transparently audited, and part of a long-term investment plan that benefits every resident.

2. The Real Story on Council Tax

Reform criticises a 21.5% increase in council tax since 2021, but context matters.

Since then, we’ve faced global crises: war in Ukraine, skyrocketing utility prices, inflation, and national policy changes like increases to national insurance and minimum wage. Despite that, the actual increase averages just 4.3% per year—in line with household costs across the UK.

More importantly, councils like ours are given extra leeway to raise tax specifically for adult social care—one of the largest, most critical services we deliver.

3. Translation Services: A Legal and Moral Duty

Another target in Reform’s leaflets: £200,000 spent on translation and language services. But here’s the truth.

This isn’t “waste”—it’s a necessary service. Councils across the country are supporting Ukrainian, Afghan, Syrian, and Hong Kong refugees, many of whom arrived through government-backed resettlement schemes. Lincolnshire has done its part, and rightly so.

These services help families access education, healthcare, and local support. Reform’s claims overlook the legal requirements and humanitarian responsibilities involved.

4. Encouraging Cycling & Walking Isn’t a Waste

From 2017 to 2020, £350,000 was spent promoting walking and cycling. Reform claims this is waste. I see it differently.

Lincolnshire suffers from some of the UK’s worst health inequalities. Encouraging healthier lifestyles isn’t just good policy—it’s smart public health strategy that reduces NHS strain, supports mental wellbeing, and improves community life.

5. Equality Roles & “Wokeness”

Reform’s attack on equality staff salaries—£106,000 across two roles—misses the point entirely.

These roles ensure fairness and access in public services for all residents, including those with disabilities or from minority communities. Inclusion isn’t “woke” politics—it’s basic decency and good governance.

6. Executive Pay – Let’s Be Realistic

Yes, the Chief Executive of Lincolnshire County Council earns more than the Prime Minister. But unlike the PM, council chiefs run vast multi-service organisations with huge responsibilities. The salary is aligned with national guidelines and comparable to similar roles elsewhere.

Replacing her—if Reform insists—would incur massive costs and risk losing experienced leadership. As the saying goes, “If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.”

7. The Mayoral Election – Experience Matters

As we elect our first Lincolnshire Mayor, two candidates are standing out: Rob Waltham (Conservative) and Reform’s Andrea Jenkyns.

Rob is a proven local leader, experienced in running a top-performing council and working constructively with government. The mayor’s job is to lead the combined authority, attract investment, and negotiate on Lincolnshire’s behalf—not set parking charges or run local markets, as Reform claims.

In short: Rob gets it. Andrea does not.

A Clear Choice on May 1st

This election is not just about party lines—it’s about who has the knowledge, experience, and honesty to run services well, invest wisely, and deliver for our communities.

I’m proud to support my Conservative colleagues and urge you to look beyond slogans. Let’s stick with those who understand the job, deliver results, and are rooted in our communities.

Thanks for taking the time to listen—and as always, if you see me in Woodhall Spa or Kirkby on Bain, feel free to stop me for a chat.