Decision details

(1)  Cabinet RECOMMENDED to Council the estimates for 2020/21 be approved, subject to receipt of the rent standard, with delegated authority being given to the Portfolio Holder for Housing & Communities in consultation with the Director for Corporate Services to amend the estimated working balance based on any changes to this standard;

(2)  Cabinet RECOMMENDED to Council an average rent increase of 2.69% for all Council dwellings for 2020/21, with effect from 1 April 2020 and that when a property is re-let, the rent continues to be brought into line with the Government’s formula rent;

(3)  That the working balance be maintained at the approved minimum working balance of £750,000, with any residual amounts transferred to the Regeneration and Development reserve;

(4)  Cabinet RECOMMENDED            to Council approval of a delegation to the Director for Housing and Communities in consultation with the Director for Corporate Services to access the Regeneration and Development Reserve balance for schemes and projects supporting the HAMP and in line with the HRA Business Plan;

(5)  That a working balance of £750,000 be budgeted for at 31 March 2021, based on a 2.69% average rent increase;

(6)  Cabinet APPROVED the new service charge for Health and Safety Works for purpose built flats in the Borough of £3.10 per week for 2020/21;

(7)  That taking account of comments from Scrutiny Committee, a further comprehensive review of all potential service changes be undertaken with a view to Cabinet considering a more detailed policy by the autumn and any further charges being introduced in April 2021;

(8)  Cabinet APPROVED a new electricity re-charge to tenants who make use of the new mobility scooter pods.