Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: December 10, 2024

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED: Cabinet; 1.     Approved for consultation the draft Housing Revenue Account budget 2025-26. 2.     Approved for consultation the 2.7% (£3.01) increase in average rents from £111.79 to £114.80 per week, in accordance with the government’s amended Rent Standard with effect from 1 April 2025. 3.     Approved the 2.7% increase in tenants and leaseholder service charges excluding utilities with effect from 1 April 2025 as set out in Appendix 5. 4.     Approved the 2.7% increase in garage rents and commuter surcharges with effect from 1 April 2025. This will increase the average rent per garage from £11.80 to £12.12 and the commuter surcharge from £18.75 to £19.26 per week respectively, as set out in Appendix 5. 5.     Approved the draft 2025-26 management fee to Northamptonshire Partnership Homes in appendix 4 to deliver the services in scope within the management agreement. 6.     Approved for consultation the draft HRA Capital Programme for 2025-26 to 2029-30.   REASONS RESOLVED: The Council has a statutory duty to set a balanced Housing Revenue Account budget each year, as well as a financially sustainable capital programme.   ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: The Council has a legal duty to set a balanced budget each year, bearing in mind its fiduciary duties to the taxpayer, and the HRA is not allowed to go into deficit by law. In exercising these duties, the Council must comply with various legislation and administrative duties.