Issue - meetings

That the Committee support the introduction of the policy framework for Hardship Rate Relief.

The Revenues Manager introduced a report on the proposed Hardship Rate Relief Policy for 2016-17 and future years.  He provided background information and advised that the introduction of a formal policy framework had been developed to ensure consistency, transparency and best practice.  It also provided an opportunity to formalise into a single policy framework well established procedures and regulations for the determination of applications.  The Revenues Manager reported that the framework will ensure all ratepayers making applications for Hardship Rate Relief are treated fairly and consistently as well as providing ratepayers with a clearer understanding of the scheme.

In response to a question raised by Councillor David Roney, the Revenues Manager confirmed that an appeals process was in place if a ratepayer was not satisfied with the Council’s decision.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee support the introduction of the policy framework for Hardship Rate Relief.