Issue - meetings

[To approve an extension to the Council’s local scheme for business rate discretionary relief with effect from 1 April 2018]

1.       That an extension to the local business rates discretionary relief policy be approved:

i.         in respect of revaluation support for 2018-2019

ii     in respect of charitable and voluntary organisations for 2018-2019.

2.       That a corresponding increase in awards under the revaluation support scheme be approved should the Government change its position and allow any underspend in 2017-2018 to be carried forward into 2018-2019.

3.       That it would be noted that the revaluation support scheme would need to be reviewed and revised each year in line with the funding available.

Having declared a pecuniary interest in this item, Councillor Sandra Samuels OBE left the meeting room whilst the report was considered.

Councillor Andrew Johnson presented the report on a proposal to extend the Council’s local scheme for business rate discretionary relief in respect of revaluation support and charitable and voluntary organisations with effect from 1 April 2018.  The extension of the scheme for revaluation support was in line with the Government’s aim of assisting businesses hardest hit by the revaluation and was aligned with the principles of other schemes across the region. The extension of the scheme for charitable and voluntary organisations continued to support a range of organisations providing support to vulnerable groups allowing the Council to foster good relations and enhance equal opportunities.

Resolved:

1.    That an extension to the local business rates discretionary relief policy be approved:

                    i.       in respect of revaluation support for 2018-2019.

ii.       in respect of charitable and voluntary organisations for 2018-2019.

2.    That a corresponding increase in awards under the revaluation support scheme be approved should the Government change its position and allow any underspend in 2017-2018 to be carried forward into 2018-2019.

3.    That it be noted that the revaluation support scheme would need to be reviewed and revised each year in line with the funding available.