Decision details

The report of the Head of Treasury Services was submitted, recommending a rent increase from 1 April 2009 for Council dwellings.  Scrutiny Committee – Community considered the report at their meeting on 20 January 2009 and the support and comments of Members were noted.

The Director Community and Environment reported that the average rise in rent per collection week for 2009/10 would be £4.26 not £3.77 as set out in the report.

In response to a query regarding the Council’s policy of collecting rent over 48 weeks, the Director Community and Environment reported that the arrangement had been made in consultation with tenants who welcomed the “rent-free” periods particularly over Christmas.

Some members expressed disappointment at the Government’s proposed 6.2% average rent increase for Exeter, since this was significantly above the current level of inflation. Councillor Edwards questioned the ability of the Council to deviate from the Government’s rent convergence requirements.  He was advised by the Director Community and Environment that the implications of doing so would be very serious and against her professional advice. Seconded by Councillor Mrs Morrish, Councillor Edwards proposed an amendment to the recommendation to agree an average rent increase of 3.2% to include a general increase of 2.5% together with the phased introduction of the Government’s rent restructuring proposals. The motion was put to the vote and lost.

Executive resolved that the rents of Council dwellings be increased from 1 April 2009, by an average of 6.2% which includes a general increase of 5.0% together with the phased introduction of the Government’s rent restructuring proposals.

(In accordance with Standing Order 43, Councillor Edwards requested that his name be recorded as having voted against the resolution and Councillor Mrs Henson requested that her name be recorded as having abstained)