Issue - meetings

To consider the options for further technical amendments to Council Tax discounts.

(Report attached)

The Committee considered a report by the Head of Customer Access and Financial Support, which set out options for further technical amendments to Council Tax discounts.

Seven options were set out for consideration, including reducing the period of 50% empty homes discount from 6 months to 3, 2 or 1 month, removal of various discounts and implementation of a long term empty homes premium.

The Committee noted the representation attached to the report from the National Landlords Association and specifically the proposal that the Council offer Council Tax relief to landlords for a maximum of 21 days if the landlords were accredited.  Officers advised that if the approach suggested was adopted it could be perceived as unfair to other sections of society.

Overall the Committee considered that the proposal to reduce the period of 50% empty homes discount to three months was reasonable in the current circumstances.  Members also supported the ability to create a hardship fund to help those most affected by the changes to Council Tax support.  

RESOLVED that

the period of 50% Empty Homes Discount be reduced to three months.