Ten Councillors Resign Following Leader's Fraud Conviction
A wave of resignations hits Ashfield District Council after its leader, Jason Zadrozny, was convicted of fraud.
Ten councillors have resigned from the Ashfield Independents party following the fraud conviction of party leader Jason Zadrozny. The resignations stem from the controversy surrounding Zadrozny's conviction and a subsequent decision to appoint him back to the planning committee without consultation with the broader group.
Councillor Matt Relf, executive lead member for growth, regeneration and local planning, described his decision to quit as "enormously upsetting." He stated that the controversy surrounding Zadrozny's conviction and the choices leading to it had caused distress and surprise within the group. Relf indicated that the decision to reappoint Zadrozny to the planning committee, made without broader consultation, was the final catalyst for his departure. He felt he had no option but to leave to stay true to the party's principles of integrity and democratic accountability.
Hucknall Central councillor Lee Waters also announced his resignation, citing a period of reflection. Waters affirmed that his priority remains listening to residents and addressing their concerns, and that he will continue his council responsibilities with dedication.
Samantha Deakin has taken over as the new leader of the council, but has not yet agreed to an interview.
Jason Zadrozny was found guilty of defrauding the county council out of thousands of pounds. The councillors who have left the Ashfield Independents are Matt Relf, Lee Waters, Christopher Huskinson, Dave Shaw, Dale Grounds, Ian Briggs, Gordon Mann, Trevor Lock, Sarah Lewsey, John Wilmott, Warren Nuttall, Kier Barsby, and Jason Zadrozny.