Decision details

ORDERED that Executive:

1.    Approve the proposals as set out in the report approve the updated Discretionary Rates Relief policy.

2.    Approve that delegated authority to approve any future minor revisions/modifications required for clarification or legislative requirements to the policy be provided to the Director of Finance.

3.    That Executive note that the policy brings together three existing schemes, against which discretionary rate relief could be awarded, to be replaced by one policy which provided clarity and consistency for those organisations wishing to apply for the relevant relief.

4.    The proposed key changes to the policy included:

                      i.        Clearly defined criteria, decision making panel and e-form to improve the user experience of the application and governance process.

                    ii.        A cap of 50% for Hardship relief applications in year one, with an option for an enhanced rate of 100% relief in year one if applicants can evidence greater impact to the local economy, as outlined in the policy. In addition, an introduction of tapered reductions in consecutive hardship relief awards up to a maximum of three years subject to appropriate supporting evidence.

                   iii.        For organisations that were not registered as charities or Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASC), a 20% discretionary relief award will be applied (subject to scheme eligibility). This is a reduction from the existing scheme where non-registered organisations have been eligible for up to 100%.

                   iv.        For Partly Occupied Hereditaments, applicants would need to demonstrate inward investment in order to qualify e.g., businesses relocating into Middlesbrough (as opposed to businesses relocating away from the town)