Gloucester Mayor Ashley Bowkett has addressed recent online misinformation regarding his stance on the timing of a special City Council meeting held on December 18. The meeting was convened to update the public on Gloucester City Council’s critical financial situation.
Councillor Bowkett, representing Barnwood for the Liberal Democrats, emphasized his intent to “set the record straight” after misleading commentary and an AI-generated video circulated online implied that he had refused to host a public debate before Christmas.
Contrary to these claims, Mayor Bowkett confirmed he never rejected holding a special meeting but initially believed it would be more effective to hold it after the holiday period to allow councillors ample time to thoroughly review the financial data presented on December 17 at a members’ briefing.
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The City Council is currently seeking an emergency government loan ranging from £12.5 million to £17.5 million to address its financial challenges.
“In response to a request from the Conservative Group Leader, I agreed that a special council meeting should be held, consistent with my statutory duties. The issue was solely about the timing,” Bowkett explained. “Upon further discussion and consideration of arguments, I decided to advance the meeting to December 18, allowing for earlier public scrutiny.”
He expressed frustration over the spread of false information, noting, “The AI-generated video and other online material led many to believe I refused public debate, which is completely untrue. This is contradicted by written communications between myself and group leaders, some of which were quite unbecoming for public officials.”
Mayor Bowkett stressed the importance of respectful discourse and adherence to Gloucester’s long-standing civic traditions. “The office of Mayor is civic, ceremonial, and non-political, with a history spanning over 500 years. The way we treat this office and each other communicates a strong message to all residents. The attacks were not just personal; they were an affront to our city’s heritage and to the standards expected from elected representatives.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to impartial leadership: “My priority remains to chair meetings fairly, uphold due process, and ensure open and respectful debate on all council matters, especially concerning the city’s finances, for the benefit of Gloucester’s residents.”