Cllr Fay Howard chaired the session, which marked the last major meeting of the current political term.
Full council meetings are held around every six weeks. They are open to the public and streamed online.
Proceedings began with the traditional ceremony involving the council’s historic mace. It was carried into the chamber and placed before the chair.
The Swindon mace is considered unusual as it bears the cypher of King Edward VIII, who abdicated in 1936 less than a year after taking the throne.
Public questions opened the agenda. Residents raised concerns about the upkeep of play parks, parking pressures and access to GP services.
Despite political differences, councillors showed cross party backing on several issues. These included support for country parks, proposals for a £1 bus fare cap for young people, flying the Pride flag and increasing the supply of affordable homes.
Reflecting on the role ahead of the elections, Fay said:
“Being a councillor is about providing leadership and making tough decisions for the community and while politicians are not always the most popular figures, the chance to make a real difference is fantastic.”
The meeting also recognised four councillors who are standing down.
Councillors Ray Ballman, Dale Heenan, Dr Matt Lodge and Sean Wilson are not seeking re election. Together, they have given a combined 58 years of service to Swindon Borough Council.
Paying tribute, Fay said the town “owes them a huge debt of gratitude” for their decades of commitment to serving residents.
Her final duty as chair will be to preside over the annual council meeting in May. At that meeting, the newly elected authority will be formally constituted before the mayoral chains are handed to her successor.
