Decision Maker: Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet, Eastbourne Borough Council Full Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 12, 2025

Purpose: To approve the local council tax reduction scheme and agree any amendments as necessary. It is a legal requirement that the council approve the scheme annually.

Content: Recommended to Full Council (Budget and policy framework):   (1) To recommend to Full Council that the 2024/25 Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme be adopted as the 2025/26 scheme.   (Key decision):   (2) Subject to Full Council approval, Cabinet grants the Chief Executive delegated authority   (a) to implement the Scheme, such delegated authority to include any measures necessary for or incidental to its management and administration; and   (b) if necessary, and in accordance with paragraph 2.3 of the report, to amend the Scheme in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Finance   (3) That the Exceptional Hardship Scheme continues in 2025/26 to provide additional support to the most financially vulnerable.   (4) That a 100% LCTR scheme be adopted in 2026/27 following a consultation exercise and the outcome is known of the upcoming Local Government Funding Review.   That Cabinet with the objective of implementing a revised Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme in 2026/27:   (a) authorise the Director of Finance and Performance to enter into consultation with the major precepting authorities.   (b) authorise the Director of Finance and Performance to produce a draft scheme that calculates a Council Tax Reduction of 100% of a person’s council tax liability, removes the Minimum-Income Floor for the self-employed and removes the £5.00 minimum award.   (c) on completion of the consultation and drafting authorised under (a) and (b) above, authorise the Director of Finance and Performance to consult with other interested parties.