Issue - meetings

To note on a provisional basis the rent increase in compliance with the government’s rent guidance and to instruct officers to provide a final report on rent setting and the housing revenue account after due consultation to cabinet on 24 January 2012.

RESOLVED:

1.  That it be noted on a provisional basis, a rent increase of 7.96% in compliance with the government’s rent guidance as set out in paragraphs 12 - 22 of the report.  This is equivalent to an increase of £6.78 per week on average, to be applied to all housing revenue account (HRA) dwellings (including estate voids and hostels), with effect from 2 April 2012.  Average budgeted dwelling rent for tenanted stock in 2012/13 will be £91.94 per week.

2.  That it be noted on a provisional basis the intention of the council to charge new-build and newly let properties at formula rent levels from the commencement of their letting as set out in paragraph 23 of the report.

3.  That it be noted on a provisional basis no increase to tenant service charges as set out in paragraph 24 of the report.

4.  That it be noted on a provisional basis no increase to the standard charge for garages, consideration of amendments to the concessionary scheme, and the potential introduction of a ‘market rent’ for private sector renters as set out in paragraphs 25 – 27 of the report with effect from 2 April 2012.

5.  That it be noted on a provisional basis no increase to heating and hot water charges as set out in paragraphs 28 – 30 of the report with effect from 2 April 2012.

6.  That officers provide a final report on rent-setting and the housing revenue account (HRA) budget for 2012/13 after due consultation processes have been followed for consideration at their meeting on 24 January 2012.