Agenda item

To note issues associated with the housing revenue account.

To instruct officers to provide a final report to cabinet in January 2017 on rent setting after consultation with residents.

RESOLVED:

1.  That it be noted on a provisional basis a rent decrease of 1.0% for all housing revenue account (HRA) dwellings (including estate voids and hostels) with effect from 3 April 2017. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Welfare Reform and Work Act 2016. The average dwelling rent in 2017-18 under such a reduction would be £99.48 per week.

2.  With regard to other HRA-wide charges, it be noted on a provisional basis an increase in tenant service charges, comprising estate cleaning, grounds maintenance, communal lighting and door entry maintenance as set out in paragraphs 42 – 43 of the report, with effect from 3 April 2017.

3.  That it be noted on a provisional basis no increase to sheltered housing service charges as set out in paragraph 44 of the report with effect from 3 April 2017.

4.  That it be noted on a provisional basis an increase in charges for garages, as set out in paragraph 45 of the report.

5.  That it be noted on a provisional basis no increase to district heating and hot water charges as set out in paragraphs 46 – 48 of the report with effect from 3 April 2017.

6.  That the decision of the government not to make the provisions within the Housing and Planning Act 2016 with regard to higher income social tenants (“pay-to-stay”) mandatory, and resolves not to introduce said provisions on a voluntary basis be noted.

7.  That it be noted that the council will no longer be responsible for the billing and collection of water and sewerage charges levied by Thames Water with effect from 1 April 2017 as set out in paragraphs 26 – 27 of the report.

8.  That commitment to ensure that savings proposals are primarily based on efficiencies, and where staffing reductions form part of any savings proposal, that due consultation and process is followed with trade unions be reaffirmed.

9.  That officers provide a final report on rent setting and the housing revenue account (HRA) budget for 2017-18 after due consultation processes with residents have been followed for consideration at their meeting on 24 January 2017.