Wolverhampton councillor to step down after 16 years
A long-serving councillor has announced she will be standing down at next year's council elections.
Councillor Rita Potter told Labour Party colleagues she would not be seeking re-election in her Wednesfield North seat in May next year.
Councllor Potter has represented the seat since 2010.
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Ward colleague Councillor Phil Bateman said paid tribute to her 'dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to social justice'.
During her time on the council, Councillor Potter has served on the adult scrutiny panel, planning committee, and most recently as chairman of the governance and ethics committee.
She said: "It has been the honour of my life to represent Wednesfield North.
"I am proud of what we have achieved together, and remain deeply grateful to the residents who placed their trust in me.
"I will continue to support our community in every way I can until the new election takes place in May, 2026."
Councillor Bateman said Councillor Potter's public service had been shaped by her strong trade-union roots, having been elected to both the regional and national political committees of the Unite union in 2009. This, he said, brought a principled grassroots perspective to her role in local government.
"Rita has been a visible and vocal champion for Wednesfield North, working alongside fellow Labour councillors to improve local services, protect green spaces, and support vulnerable residents.
"Her leadership has helped secure vital investments and fostered a strong sense of community pride."
