Jo Roundell Greene, a serving Somerset councillor and former parliamentary candidate, has been granted a six-month leave of absence. Since May 2022, she has represented the South Petherton and Islemoor division as one of two Liberal Democrat councillors.
Ms Roundell Greene, who previously stood as the Liberal Democrat candidate for Yeovil in the 2017 general election, submitted her leave request to council leader and Lib Dem group leader Bill Revans. The request was approved by Somerset’s chief executive, Duncan Sharkey, relieving her of attending any council meetings—both in-person and virtual—until after Halloween.
The South Petherton and Islemoor division encompasses numerous villages along the A303 between Crewkerne and Langport, including Merriott, Shepton Beauchamp, and South Petherton itself. Beyond her role as councillor, Ms Roundell Greene is the associate portfolio holder for children’s services and education strategy, playing a vital role in shaping special needs provision across Somerset.
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Additionally, she actively participates in two local community networks that unite parish councils and voluntary organizations to advance community projects across Crewkerne, Ilminster, and the broader Levels and Moors region. She also serves on multiple boards, including the corporate parenting board, the improvement and transformation board, and the Somerset outdoor and residential learning advisory group.
During her absence, casework responsibilities will be managed by Adam Dance, her fellow division member and current Yeovil MP. Alyn Jones, the council’s monitoring officer, confirmed the decision was made to avoid further delays and had full consultation with all relevant parties, with no objections raised.
Ms Roundell Greene is among four councillors currently on leave. Others include Conservative Councillor Sue Osborne (Ilminster) off until July 22, Huntspill’s Suria Aujla expected to return after September 16, and Labour’s Kathy Pearce (Bridgwater South) whose leave ends October 31. These absence periods may be extended if necessary.