Councillor Jon Hunt

Recently working with the police, volunteers and council staff we have made great progress in developing two of our community parks.

As I have taken on wider roles and responsibilities I have sought to apply the same principles of listening and involving others. From 2004 to 2005 I chaired a special scrutiny committee looking at local regeneration projects.

After becoming chair of the children and education committee in 2005, I led a city-wide consultation with parents of children with special needs. It was a privilege to sit round tables in halls I believe that the people of Birmingham can have a greater say and influence than they realise in how this city is run and shaped.

I live in the heart of the Perry Barr ward as I did when I was elected in 2003 – even though I have moved house from one part of the ward to another. Local residents have always been frequent and welcome visitors to my door-step.

With my colleagues we have sought to involve local people in the shaping of our ward. The annual allocation of community chest is a great way to deliver local people’s priorities, be it for community safety, youth activities or road safety. Over the years we have regularly asked local people what they want done – and have done our best to deliver this.

I was privileged to collect an award for community engagement in scrutiny. This came about because the UK Youth Parliament has supplied young people’s representatives to sit on our committee – and they asked for an investigation into sex education. 

It’s a subject many adults are squeamish to talk about – but we set up a joint group with the young people and produced a surprising and radical report, calling for focus on relationships and supporting young people.

I have also been vice-chair of a new scrutiny committee that we set up, the vulnerable children’s committee. I’m glad we set this up as there are major challenges in children’s social care and this has enabled councillors to investigate the problems and ensure solutions are implemented.

Another role I was on, was the Centro Members Joint Committee, and I have been lead member for buses and highways for several years. That’s a big and tough task in itself. We have been examining bus networks around the city and, again, the transport authority and the bus operators have been learning to do better consultation. Each “network review” has been more inclusive, with more public engagement.

Council Service

Elected: Perry Barr Ward

Joined Council: 1 May 2003

Office Expires: 2018

Council Service: May 2003 to date

Political Party: Liberal Democrat

Position Held: Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group