Strathmore councillor Ian says that it is ‘time to hand over the reins’
the transformation of Perth Museum and Art Gallery and the Tay Cities Deal bid - which he said “will herald a new era of opportunity and prosperity for Perth and Kinross and the wider region”.
He continued: “It has been an honour to represent the people of Perth and Kinross and a privilege to head the council over the past 10 years. It has also been a pleasure to work with council staff and fellow councillors, from all political parties, and work in a friendly and constructive way for the good of all.
“I would also like to thank officers and employees of the council for their hard work and commitment to local people.”
He added: “I especially want to thank the people of the Alyth area, and latterly, of the Strathmore area who have elected me in successive elections since 1995. It has been a privilege to represent you.
“I leave the council in what I believe is its strongest ever position. Our bid for City of Culture 2021 is leading the pack and we are the bookies’ favourites to win the award.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the council. It is certainly a demanding role but at the same time very rewarding. It is nice to be leaving on a high note.”
Perthshire North MSP and Deputy First Minister, John Swinney, paid warm tribute to Councillor Miller.
He said: “I am very sorry that Ian Miller has decided to stand down from public office and would like to pay tribute to the excellent public service he has given to the people of Perth and Kinross.
“Ian has made a huge contribution to the public life of our area since 1995, delivering improvements and positive developments in challenging times. As leader of Perth and Kinross Council, he has led the process of transforming the council into one of the most efficient, best performing local authorities in Scotland.
“Ian’s great strength has been his honesty, integrity and his willingness to bring people from different views together for common purpose. He has treated the opposition and the public with respect and has used the authority vested in him to positive effect. That approach has ensured there is wide respect for Ian as leader of the council and has created an ability to get things done.
“At a local level Ian has given industrious service and constant support to the people of Alyth and to the wider electorate in the Strathmore ward.
“Finally, at a personal level, I have for nearly 30 years enjoyed Ian’s friendship and political support. He has been one of my closest allies and I greatly appreciate all that I have learned from his calm and persuasive approach. I am profoundly grateful to Ian for all that he has accomplished for Perth and Kinross.”
What has particularly pleased me has been the building of many new schools