| Item | Description | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| PART 1 - PUBLIC | ||
| MATTERS FOR RECOMMENDATION TO THE CABINET | ||
| FIP 13/049 |
Council Tax Reduction Scheme 2014/15 and Possible Changes to Council Tax Discounts and Exemptions |
Consideration was given to the report of the Director of Finance and Transformation which sought views on the operation of the current council tax reduction scheme in 2014/15 and whether there should be any amendment to the existing council tax exemptions and discounts. The report set out the features of the Council's council tax reduction scheme, its current operation and the outcome of the previous consultation prior to adoption of the scheme based on an 18.5% deduction from entitlement. The case for change was examined together with the impacts arising from the Spending Review on the Council's ability to fund a smaller council tax reduction figure. Reference was made to possible alternative options to the introduction of transitional protection for claimants faced with receiving less support in 2014/15, for example, through use of the Social Fund administered by Kent County Council. RECOMMENDED: That (1) no further 'transitional protection' be offered in 2014/15 in respect of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme; (2) it be confirmed that the Scheme should revert to the original proposals - that 'the resultant entitlement of the claimant is reduced by 18.5%'; (3) on the basis that the Scheme is not to be revised, the existing council tax reduction be refreshed in preparation for the financial year 2014/15 and published accordingly; (4) the Director of Finance and Transformation be authorised to enter into further discussions with Kent County Council and Kent District Council colleagues regarding the future potential use of the 'Social Fund' with regard to council tax liability; and (5) no changes be made to the current discounts and exemptions in preparation for the new financial year 2014/15 but the possibility of further amendments be considered in due course. *Referred to Cabinet |