Decision details

17.1

To seek authority that allows Sheffield City Council to further contract with Yorkshire Water as their agent and continue collecting water rate charges from Council tenants on Yorkshire Water’s behalf for the period 1^st April 2021 to 30 March 2024.

Yorkshire Water has indicated they would agree to the Council continuing collecting these charges as their agent and they are prepared to confirm this in the commercial documents.

17.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:-

1.    Notes the contents of the report.

2.    Approves the council entering a contract on the basis that the council will  act as agent for Yorkshire Water to collect water rates from Council tenants occupying properties where Yorkshire Water is the supplier.

3.    To the extent not already delegated to them by the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation, delegate authority to the Executive Director of Place, in consultation with the Director of Legal and Governance and Director of Finance and Commercial Services  to prepare and execute all required documentation and take steps to implement these recommendations.

17.3

Reasons for Decision

17.3.1

The Council has been collecting water rates on behalf of council tenants for over 20 years.  The arrangement is mutually beneficial for all parties, the Council receives an income to the Housing Revenue Account which is used to support Council Tenants, Yorkshire Water receive a high collection rate and customers benefit from officers who are trained in financial inclusion and support, as well as income collection.

17.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

17.4.1

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

17.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

17.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

17.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Executive Director of Place

17.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Safer and Stronger Communities Scrutiny Committee