Agenda item

To note issues associated with the housing revenue account.

To instruct officers to provide a final report to cabinet in January 2019 on rent setting after consultation with residents.

RESOLVED:

1.  That a rent decrease of 1.0% for all directly and tenant managed (TMO) housing stock within the housing revenue account (HRA) (including estate voids, sheltered and hostels), with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Welfare Reform and Work Act 2016.

2.  That with regard to other HRA-wide charges, the changes to tenant service charges, comprising estate cleaning, grounds maintenance, communal lighting and door entry maintenance as set out in paragraphs 30 – 31 of the report with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis.

3.  That increases in charges for garages and other non-residential facilities as set out in paragraphs 32 – 33 of the report with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis.

4.  That no increase to district heating and hot water charges as set out in paragraph 34 of the report with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis.

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

6.  That officers be instructed to provide a final report on rent setting and the housing revenue account (HRA) budget for 2019-20 after due consultation processes with residents have been followed for consideration at the cabinet meeting on 22 January 2019.