Issue - meetings

To consider the final report on the housing revenue account budget 2017-18 and agree recommendations.

Appendix G of this item was circulated separately, which contained the results of consultation meetings between 3 and 23 January 2017.

RESOLVED:

1.  That a rent decrease of 1.0% for all housing revenue account (HRA) dwellings (including estate voids and hostels) with effect from 3 April 2017 be agreed. 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 will be £99.48 per week. Paragraphs 15 and 16 of the report contain further detail.

2.  That with regard to other HRA-wide charges, tenant service charges, comprising the estate cleaning, grounds maintenance, communal lighting and door entry maintenance charges be increased as set out in paragraph 21 of the report with effect from 3 April 2017.

3.  That no increase be made to sheltered housing service charges as set out in paragraph 22 of the report with effect from 3 April 2017.

4.  That the decision on direct charges for garages, store sheds and parking bays be deferred pending a report back to cabinet on 7 February 2017 reviewing charges. That in the event of cabinet agreeing a proposal in respect of non-residential charges on 7 February 2017, officers be instructed to identify additional savings to enable a balanced HRA budget to be set without further reference to cabinet. 

5.  That there be no increase to district heating and hot water charges as set out in paragraph 24 of the report with effect from 3 April 2017.

6.  That the commitments made at cabinet in December 2016 be reaffirmed; not to introduce the voluntary provisions of the Housing and Planning Act 2016 with regard to higher income social tenants (‘pay-to-stay’), and to ensure that savings made are primarily based on efficiencies, and where staffing reductions form part of any said savings, that due consultation and process is followed with trade unions.