Issue - meetings

Considered: A report of the Corporate Director for Strategic Resources seeking approval for the implementation of the North Yorkshire Council’s Council Tax Reduction (CTR) Scheme with effect from 1st April 2023.

County Councillor Gareth Dadd introduced the report confirming the challenges around developing one scheme appropriate for all areas of the new authority, where previously seven had existed.  He also noted the excellent joint working by officers that had contributed to the development of the new proposed scheme.  He suggested the scheme should be considered alongside that of the Discount and Premiums Scheme agreed at the Executive’s last meeting, as that scheme would claw back the additional costs of this scheme.  Finally, he confirmed the majority of consultation responses had been very positive.

Gareth Dadd, Corporate Director for Strategic Resources drew attention to the recommendations within the report and the particular the proposed delegations.

County Councillor Eric Broadbent questioned whether more could be done to support who would struggle financially and suggested the addition of an agent supported scheme may be a good way forward.

Marcus Lee, Ryedale District Council S151 Officer confirmed work was ongoing to provide appropriate support to those seeking financial assistance, and it was noted that modelling work had shown that 16.5K of working aged claimants would be better off, whereas 2.5K would receive less support.

The Executive noted the report and it was

Resolved – That:

i.           The consultation responses on the draft CTR proposals be noted;

ii.          It be recommended that Full Council approve the new, income banded / grid Council Tax Reduction scheme for working age applicants with effect from 1st April 2023; as detailed within Sections 5 and 6of the report;

iii.         Authority to approve the accompanying Exceptional Hardship Scheme be delegated to the S151 Officer in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, Assets and Resources and Special Projects;

iv.         The authority to grant relief under the Exceptional Hardship Scheme be delegated to the S151 Officer.