Issue - meetings

This report recommends fees and charges for which this Committee is responsible, with the new charges being effective from 1 April 2024.

Following consideration, the Committee resolved (6 for, 1 abstention) to:

(1)          agree the fees and charges for the Community and Wellbeing Committee for 2024/25.

The Committee received a report recommending fees and charges for which the Committee is responsible, with the new charges being effective from 1 April 2024.

The Committee considered the following matters:

a)            Ewell Court House. Following a question from a Member, the Head of Property and Regeneration explained that the Council leases out Ewell Court House and receives a guaranteed base rent from the tenant.

b)            Financial Support. The Head of Operational Services explained that the Council is able to cover costs via the Disabled Facilities Grant for qualifying residents who are unable to pay for services such as the Community Alarm or Bathing services.

c)            Competitivity and Flexibility. The Head of Operational Services explained that, whilst flexible and open to negotiation where appropriate, the Committee’s fees and charges had been set in accordance with the market in order to be competitive and to cover costs for the Council.

d)            Houses of Multiple Occupation Charges. The Head of Housing and Community explained that, whilst the HMO charges had been set in line with the advice of the relevant Service Manager, it should be noted that those charges can only be set so as to cover the Council’s expenses and not to make a profit.

Following consideration, the Committee resolved (6 for, 1 abstention) to:

(1)          agree the fees and charges for the Community and Wellbeing Committee for 2024/25.