Issue - decisions

10.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report seeking approval to enter into a new three year contract with Yorkshire Water to collect water rates from Council housing tenants as an agent of Yorkshire Water.

10.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:-  

(a)

agrees that the Council enter into a three year collection contract with Yorkshire Water to collect water rates from Council housing tenants on the terms and for the reasons outlined in the report; and

(b)

delegates authority to the Executive Director, Place, in consultation with the Director of Legal and Governance, to finalise terms and complete all necessary documentation.

10.3

Reasons for Decision

10.3.1

The preferred option continues to provide a valued service to tenants via existing long standing operational arrangements and maintains an income stream to the Council.

10.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

10.4.1

The Council could notify that it no longer wishes to act as an agent for Yorkshire Water. This would, however, result in;

• A reduction in service for tenants who would have to make payments direct to Yorkshire Water and would also not have support to apply for water support grants.
• Yorkshire Water would require time to develop alternative arrangements to collect outstanding water rates
• A reduction in income to the Council.

10.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

10.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

10.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Laraine Manley, Executive Director, Place

10.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Safer and Stronger Communities