Mayor of Filey speak out about ‘turbulent’ year and ‘positive news’ for 2026
A “very disruptive and difficult period” is behind Filey Town Council, which last year saw eight councillors resign.
Cllr Linda Randall, the Mayor of Filey, has said the authority has moved on from last year’s “unrest” and is making progress despite financial challenges.
She also paid tribute to the “significant contribution made by voluntary groups and organisations in keeping Filey clean, tidy, safe, attractive, and vibrant, while providing activities for people of all ages”.
Last year, eight councillors and the town clerk resigned from the council, leaving the authority barely quorate and in an “unprecedented” situation.
At a meeting in November, Cllr Randall was appointed mayor and Cllr Wendy Fenlon was appointed deputy mayor.
Cllr Randall said Filey Town Council is “now in a much more settled and positive position”.
“We have several new councillors who are enthusiastic, community-focused, and fully engaged in committee work, enabling the council to progress its business effectively.”
She added that the culture within the council had also changed, resulting in a “more positive and productive working environment” and noted that FTC has also formally signed up to the Civility and Respect Pledge.
Commenting on the “unrest” that took place at the council last year, the mayor said that greater internal controls had been introduced, as well as strengthened transparency and accountability systems.
“While we have experienced a turbulent period, I am optimistic about the future of Filey Town Council operating in a more stable, collaborative, and positive manner,” she said.
Looking at the year ahead, Cllr Randall said the town council has been working to “fully understand and determine its required budget position going forward and has notified North Yorkshire Council of its anticipated spending and needs for 2026/27”.
She said that balancing the budget would require careful management, “particularly as financial support in some areas has reduced over recent years”.
However, she noted that several small grant awards had been awarded to local groups and organisations, although the amounts “have had to be restricted this year”.
The mayor stated that community engagement would remain a key focus, and she is looking forward to “working together on behalf of residents and visitors to keep Filey a great place to live, work, and play”.
Paying tribute to the work and commitment of local volunteers, she said: “Without the dedication of our volunteers, the town would not be as strong as it is today.
"A full programme of activities takes place throughout the year for both residents and visitors, many of which help to support local businesses.”
Cllr Randall added: “Although my term as Town Mayor has been unsettled, I remain fully committed to my role as Chair of the Council and pledge to continue working in the best interests of Filey Town Council and the wider community, ensuring that public money is spent carefully and wisely.”