Issue - meetings

As detailed in the recommendations.

            Councillor Mullin introduced the Council Tax Base for 2019/20 report which highlighted that the Base for 2019/20 had been calculated at 64,317 band D equivalent properties, after taking into account the total number of properties that would be subject to Council Tax, less those which were exempt from Council Tax or where statutory household discounts applied.

            The Revenues Manager explained that the number of properties had increased by 482 which was mainly due to new builds.  It was recommended that a ‘nil discount for properties falling within any of the Prescribed Classes (A, B, or C), for the whole of the County area, and a 50% Premium for long term empty property and second homes falling into the Council Tax Premium scheme, continue to be set.

            Councillor Bithell asked if the 50% Premium for long term empty properties could be increased to encourage owners to bring properties up to a standard where they could be used.  The Revenues Manager explained that this was something that was, and would continue to be, kept under review.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the Tax Base of 64,317 band D equivalent properties for the financial year 2019/20 be approved;

(b)       That a ‘nil’ discount continue to be set for properties falling within any of the Prescribed Classes (A, B or C) and for this to apply to the whole of the County area; and

(c)        That a 50% Premium continue to be set for long term empty properties        and second homes falling into the Council Tax Premium scheme.