Mae pob cyngor yn pennu cyllideb bob blwyddyn: faint i'w wario ar bob gwasanaeth a faint o dreth gyngor i'w chodi. Mae'r dreth gyngor yn talu am tua thraean; daw'r rhan fwyaf o'r gweddill o grant gan Lywodraeth Cymru ac ardrethi busnes.
Mae'r Cabinet yn cynnig y gyllideb, fel arfer yn y gaeaf, ac mae'r Cyngor llawn yn ei chytuno ac yn pennu'r dreth gyngor erbyn dechrau mis Mawrth. Mae pwyllgorau craffu'n archwilio'r cynlluniau yn gyntaf.
Mae'r rhan fwyaf o gynghorau'n cynnal ymgynghoriad ar y gyllideb yn yr hydref neu ddechrau'r gaeaf. Mae eich cynghorwyr yn pleidleisio ar y gyllideb derfynol, felly dywedwch wrthyn nhw beth sy'n bwysig i chi.
| Cyngor | Eitemau | Gyda phenderfyniad |
|---|---|---|
| Bro Morgannwg | 58 | 20 |
| Abertawe | 45 | 3 |
| Caerdydd | 41 | 33 |
| Sir Gâr | 10 | 2 |
| Gwynedd | 7 | 1 |
| Blaenau Gwent | 5 | 5 |
| Ceredigion | 4 | 3 |
| Pen-y-bont ar Ogwr | 4 | 0 |
| Powys | 4 | 1 |
| Sir Fynwy | 3 | 0 |
| Rhondda Cynon Taf | 2 | 1 |
| Torfaen | 1 | 1 |
| Castell-nedd Port Talbot | 1 | 1 |
RESOLVED – T H A T Section 18.12.1 (c) in the Constitution be amended to require Social Value to be a tender requirement at £0.250m for works and above Threshold for Services. Reason for decision The current thresholds were too low and a greater focus on social value was required.
RESOLVED – T H A T the contents of the Quarter 1 Monitoring report and reference for Treasury Management 2025/26 be noted. Reason for decision Having regard to the contents of the report, reference and discussions at the meeting.
RESOLVED – T H A T the Annual Report on Treasury Management 2024/25 be noted and the report be referred to Full Council for approval. Reason for decision Having regard to the contents of the report and discussions at the meeting.
RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C331, 1st May, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. RESHAPING SERVICES – ASSETS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR CONCESSIONS (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C9, 22nd May, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. FIVE MILE LANE – EXTENSION OF LAND AGENT CONTRACT AND CAPITAL PROGRAMME REVISIONS (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C16, 5th June, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. FIVE MILE LANE – EXTENSION OF LAND AGENT CONTRACT AND CAPITAL PROGRAMME REVISIONS (PART II) (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C18, 5th June, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution.
RESOLVED – T H A T the Treasury Management Annual Report for the period 1st April to 31st March, 2025 be approved Reason for decision To update Council surrounding the Council’s approach to Treasury Management.
RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C281, 6th March, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. TREASURY MANAGEMENT AND INVESTMENT STRATEGY 2025/26 AND UPDATE FOR 2024/25 (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C282, 6th March, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. DRAFT BUDGET 2025/26 AND MEDIUM TERM FINANCIAL PLAN 2025/26 TO 2029/30 (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C283, 6th March, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. VALE 2030 – DRAFT VALE OF GLAMORGAN CORPORATE PLAN 2025-30 (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C284, 6th March, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. RENEWAL OF THE FLYING START COMMISSIONED CHILDCARE CONTRACTS (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C301, 20th March, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. BELLE VUE COMMUNITY CENTRE – TEMPORARY CONTINUATION OF MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C303, 20th March, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. RESHAPING SCRUTINY (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C314, 10th April, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT FOR DISABILITY ADAPTATION CONTRACTORS (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C319, 10th April, 2025 (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution) be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution.
RESOLVED – (1) T H A T following consideration by Governance and Audit Committee, and Cabinet the revised versions of the Planning Protocol, Scheme of Delegation and Terms of Reference as contained within the agenda be approved and included within the Council’s Constitution. (2) T H A T the protocol be updated should there be changes to the Vale of Glamorgan Constitution, such as those related to public speaking, site visits or mandatory training where required. Reason for decisions (1&2) Having regard to the contents of the references, discussions at the meeting and to update the Council’s Constitution. RESHAPING SCRUTINY (REF) The Leader presented the report to look at implementing a series of changes to reform the Council’s existing Scrutiny arrangements to support the monitoring of the outcomes of the Corporate Plan. They shared that these changes had been in development since October and had consulted with a significant number of Members through various Committees such as Democratic Services Committee, Governance and Audit Committee and Corporate Performance and Resources Scrutiny Committee. The Leader stated it was their hope that all 54 Members should be able to contribute effectively to the decisions being made by the Council. They also shared reasons for changing in that there needed to be increased opportunities for the public to participate, as 60% did not feel able to contribute in the Council’s decision making, and that the Council needed to respond to recommendations from Audit Wales and the Performance Panel Assessment. The Leader stated that Cabinet was delayed allowing extra time for the final iteration to be presented, and that they wanted to change from 5 to 4 Scrutiny Committees to allow for a focus upon outcomes and not service areas. They also shared around the history of Task and Finish within the Council, including positive work on period poverty and school places. They finally shared that point 22.1 of the report needed further clarity, as the Committee sizes would be 12 Members on the Start Well Scrutiny Committee and Live Well Scrutiny Committee, with 13 Members on the Place Scrutiny Committee and Resources Scrutiny Committee, due to their potentially increased workload, and that political balance calculations would be circulated to Group Leaders. Councillor Dr. Johnson stated that considerable consultation had taken place around the topic, and they had been involved through Group Leaders Meetings and the Scrutiny Committee Chairs and Vice-Chairs Group, but that there was no point in consulting if not listening in reducing from 5 to 4 Scrutiny Committees, as there was no evidence merging Committees would help address problems. They shared that they felt there were too many changes at the same time, which would leave limited space to evaluate the impact of any changes, and expressed a concern Members may be unable to see the big picture. They concluded that this was not an attractive proposition to opposition Members, despite recognising this was a response to the Panel Performance Assessment. Councillor Carroll shared that they felt the Cabinet record was unacceptable, and the Council had an Executive Cabinet system which required opposition and backbench Members to hold them to account through full and proper scrutiny. He felt that proposals would lead to a reduction in Scrutiny and increase the workload of Committees and that he felt the role of Scrutiny drilled into issues in depth, and the new arrangements would reduce this. Councillor Carroll indicated that his Group would be unable to support these changes, as he felt they avoid accountability, would not work, lead to less Scrutiny and performance would deteriorate as a result, whilst accepting that there were failings in the existing arrangements, such as the long presentations. He warned the Administration that they would be accountable at the ballot box in 2 years’ time. Councillor Godfrey agreed around the need to re-evaluate and improve Scrutiny but did not see the justification to change from 5 Scrutiny Committees to 4 Scrutiny Committees. Councillor Goodjohn noted that the role of presentations was to be undertaken during Member briefings as part of the future arrangements, and there would be an opportunity to dig deep into external topics through Task and Finish Scrutiny, which also presented the opportunity to involve external partners and members of the public. They indicated that they were satisfied surrounding Committee workloads, and felt the new arrangements would allow backbench Members to do their job and shape the Council’s direction, and felt the approach could be increasingly effective as it encouraged an integrated approach to more meaningful work, with the opportunity for more people to get involved. Councillor Hodges shared their experience of Task and Finish Group on school places, which took a huge amount of time and resources to complete and delivered a series of recommendations, which the Cabinet at the time refused to look at, so they were cynical of Cabinet listening to Task and Finish recommendations. However, nearly all recommendations had been acted upon since. They indicated that this Task and Finish required a huge amount of input from staff, schools and wider stakeholders, with a lot depending upon officer time and availability. Councillor Hodges further stated that he felt Task and Finish should be in person, and that debate would be better this way rather than virtually. They concluded that they welcomed the emphasis upon Task and Finish, could provide a potential list of topics, but did not agree with the reduction in Scrutiny Committees. Councillor Wilson shared that he had previously chaired 2 Task and Finish groups, including surrounding the impact of the bedroom tax (2012), which met of multiple occasions, had significant outside influence and led to changes in the Discretionary Housing Payment Policy. They recognised that Task and Finish would be an opportunity to take politics out of situation and focus upon residents. Councillor Wilson also welcomed the move to introduce pre-Cabinet Scrutiny and believed the move to 4 Committees supported the Council’s new Corporate Plan. Councillor Birch expressed that they felt opposition Members would oppose any changes, and that Task and Finish work could be very useful, sharing examples of how Schools’ Governing Bodies still use resources from a previous piece of work. They reflected Members’ preparedness for meetings, and felt it was evident people had not read papers, meaning presentations were useful in allowing space to gain further understanding. They also recognised the value in hybrid arrangements and stated that policy needed a range of Members to contribute, and that the changes were trying to adjust ways of working to be increasingly effective and efficient, whilst involving as many people as possible. Councillor John shared that they were elected during the changes from a Committee to Executive system and shared around how Members used to take part in Scrutiny previously. He stated that he felt the “Call-In” process was there to be used by Members and was currently underutilised. He concluded that all Members should give the changes a go, that everyone needed to get involved, there had previously been 4 instead of 5 Scrutiny Committees, and that there should be consideration if in person or virtually. Councillor Haines proposed that all Scrutiny Chairs should be from opposition groups, to which they were advised that this was not possible due to the statutory requirements as part of the Local Government Measure. Councillor Ernest shared that they were a Member during the Committee system and reflected that Task and Finish could be equivalent to Parliamentary Select Committees, where it could question people deeply and encourage changes. However, they expressed concern around the capacity for Democratic Services Officers to support this work. Councillor Burnett concluded and asked Members to focus upon what was possible, rather than focusing upon why it would not work and shared that the changes were being made as only 20% of items were currently leading to robust scrutiny, presentation / information items should be considered using the briefing process, and that noting items needed to stop, recognising that Cabinet should not be doing this as both Cabinet and Scrutiny were being unnecessarily clogged. They finally shared that co-option was being explored as it was necessary to understanding lived experiences and the Council needed residents to feel they had an impact. A Recorded Vote took place as follows: Members For Against Abstain Anne Asbrey √ Julie Aviet √ √ Gareth Ball √ Rhiannon Birch Bronwen Brooks √ Gillian Bruce √ Ian Buckley √ Lis Burnett √ Samantha Campbell √ George Carroll √ Christine Cave √ Charles Champion √ Janice Charles √ Millie Collins √ Pamela Drake √ Anthony Ernest √ Russell Godfrey √ Emma Goodjohn √ Ewan Goodjohn √ Stephen Haines √ Howard Hamilton √ Sally Hanks √ William Hennessy √ Nic Hodges √ Mark Hooper √ Catherine Iannucci-Williams √ Gwyn John √ Dr. Ian Johnson √ Susan Lloyd-Selby √ Belinda Loveluck-Edwards √ Julie Lynch-Wilson √ Kevin Mahoney √ Michael Morgan √ Naomi Marshallsea √ Helen Payne √ Elliot Penn √ Sandra Perkes √ Ian Perry √ Joanna Protheroe √ Ruba Sivagnanam √ Carys Stallard √ Neil Thomas √ Rhys Thomas √ Steffan Wiliam √ Margaret Wilkinson √ Eddie Williams √ Mark Wilson √ Nicholas Wood √ TOTAL 29 18 1 Following the Recorded Vote it was subsequently RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the proposed changes to Scrutiny arrangements be approved (2) T H A T the policies identified (Appendix D to the report) be agreed and updated to reflect any changes in Scrutiny arrangements which complied with legislation and statutory guidance. (3) T H A T the calendar of meetings (Appendix E) be updated to give effect to changes in Scrutiny arrangements. (4) T H A T a commitment to review the implementation of any proposed arrangements after approximately 12 months of implementation to ensure the desired outcomes of Reshaping Scrutiny were being achieved and to consider any amendments which may be required be endorsed. Reason for decisions (1-4) Having regard to the contents of the reference and discussions at the meeting.
RESOLVED – (1) T H A T it be noted that at its meeting on 19th December 2024, Cabinet (the Executive) calculated the following amounts for the year 2025/26 in accordance with regulations made under Section 33(5) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992:- (a) 63,970 being the amount calculated by Cabinet (the Executive) in accordance with regulation 3 of the Local Authorities (Calculation of Council Tax Base) (Wales) Regulations 1995, as amended, as its council tax base for the year. (b) Part of the Council’s area Barry 21,434 Colwinston 385 Cowbridge with Llanblethian 3,017 Dinas Powys 4,054 Ewenny 455 Llancarfan 495 Llandough 979 Llandow 443 Llanfair 393 Llangan 470 Llanmaes 252 Llantwit Major 4,384 Michaelston 244 Penarth 11,840 Pendoylan 367 Penllyn 1,181 Peterston-Super-Ely 549 St. Athan 1,756 St. Brides Major 1,504 St. Donats 212 St. Georges and St. Brides-Super-Ely 241 St. Nicholas and Bonvilston 775 Sully and Lavernock 2,849 Welsh St. Donats 333 Wenvoe 1,563 Wick 553 Total Council Tax Base Town and Community Councils 60,728 Rhoose 3,242 Total Council Tax Base 63,970 being the amounts calculated by Cabinet (the Executive), in accordance with regulation 6 of the Regulations, as amended, as the amounts of its council tax base for the year for dwellings in those parts of its area to which one or more special items relate. (2) T H A T the following amounts be now calculated by the Council for the year 2025/26 in accordance with Sections 32 to 36 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992: (a) Aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the £461,536,101 items set out in Section 32 (2) (a) to (d) and (2A) of the Act (including Town / Community Council Precepts totaling £3,850,614) (b) Aggregate of the amounts which the Council estimates for the £127,651,000 items set out in Section 32 (3) (a), (aa) and (c), and (3A) of the Act (c) Amount by which the aggregate at (2)(a) above exceeds the £333,885,101 aggregate at (2)(b) above, calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 32(4) of the Act, as its budget requirement for the year. (d) Aggregate of the sums which the Council estimates will be £224,157,740 payable for the year into its Council Fund in respect of redistributed non-domestic rates, revenue support grant, its council tax reduction scheme, additional grant or special grant less certain Discretionary Non-Domestic Rate Reliefs (e) The amount at (2)(c) above less the amount at (2)(d) above, all £1,715.29 divided by the amount at (1)(a) above, calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 33(1) of the Act as the basic amount of its council tax for the year. (f) Aggregate amount of all special items referred to in Section £3,850,614 34(1) of the Act. (g) Amount at (2)(e) above less the result given by dividing the £1,655.10 amount at (2)(f) above by the amount at (1)(a) above, calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 34(2) of the Act, as the basic amount of its council tax for the year for dwellings in those parts of its area to which no special item relates. (h) Part of the Council’s area £ Barry 1,718.44 Colwinston 1,708.74 Cowbridge with Llanblethian 1,772.61 Dinas Powys 1,692.96 Ewenny 1,707.85 Llancarfan 1,689.73 Llandough 1,729.66 Llandow 1,682.19 Llanfair 1,670.16 Llangan 1,680.17 Llanmaes 1,711.14 Llantwit Major 1,727.60 Michaelston 1,687.05 Penarth 1,745.34 Pendoylan 1,680.99 Penllyn 1,668.86 Peterston-Super-Ely 1,698.82 Rhoose 1,655.10 St. Athan 1,705.10 St. Brides Major 1,678.10 St. Donats 1,679.55 St. Georges and St. Brides-Super-Ely 1,686.22 St. Nicholas and Bonvilston 1,742.55 Sully and Lavernock 1,689.99 Welsh St. Donats 1,679.12 Wenvoe 1,682.82 Wick 1,671.37 being the amounts given by adding to the amount at (2)(g) above the amounts of the special item or items relating to dwellings in those parts of the Council’s area mentioned above divided in each case by the amount at (1)(b) above, calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 34 (3) of the Act, as the basic amounts of its council tax for the year for dwellings in those parts of its area to which one or more special items relate. No. (i) Part of the Council's Area Valuation Bands £ A B C D E F G H I Barry 1,145.63 1,336.56 1,527.50 1,718.44 2,100.32 2,482.19 2,864.07 3,436.88 4,009.69 Colwinston 1,139.16 1,329.02 1,518.88 1,708.74 2,088.46 2,468.18 2,847.90 3,417.48 3,987.06 Cowbridge with Llanblethian 1,181.74 1,378.70 1,575.65 1,772.61 2,166.52 2,560.44 2,954.35 3,545.22 4,136.09 Dinas Powys 1,128.64 1,316.75 1,504.85 1,692.96 2,069.17 2,445.39 2,821.60 3,385.92 3,950.24 Ewenny 1,138.57 1,328.33 1,518.09 1,707.85 2,087.37 2,466.89 2,846.42 3,415.70 3,984.98 Llancarfan 1,126.49 1,314.23 1,501.98 1,689.73 2,065.23 2,440.72 2,816.22 3,379.46 3,942.70 Llandough 1,153.11 1,345.29 1,537.48 1,729.66 2,114.03 2,498.40 2,882.77 3,459.32 4,035.87 Llandow 1,121.46 1,308.37 1,495.28 1,682.19 2,056.01 2,429.83 2,803.65 3,364.38 3,925.11 Llanfair 1,113.44 1,299.01 1,484.59 1,670.16 2,041.31 2,412.45 2,783.60 3,340.32 3,897.04 Llangan 1,120.11 1,306.80 1,493.48 1,680.17 2,053.54 2,426.91 2,800.28 3,360.34 3,920.40 Llanmaes 1,140.76 1,330.89 1,521.01 1,711.14 2,091.39 2,471.65 2,851.90 3,422.28 3,992.66 Llantwit Major 1,151.73 1,343.69 1,535.64 1,727.60 2,111.51 2,495.42 2,879.33 3,455.20 4,031.07 Michaelston 1,124.70 1,312.15 1,499.60 1,687.05 2,061.95 2,436.85 2,811.75 3,374.10 3,936.45 Penarth 1,163.56 1,357.49 1,551.41 1,745.34 2,133.19 2,521.05 2,908.90 3,490.68 4,072.46 Pendoylan 1,120.66 1,307.44 1,494.21 1,680.99 2,054.54 2,428.10 2,801.65 3,361.98 3,922.31 Penllyn 1,112.57 1,298.00 1,483.43 1,668.86 2,039.72 2,410.58 2,781.43 3,337.72 3,894.01 Peterston-Super-Ely 1,132.55 1,321.30 1,510.06 1,698.82 2,076.34 2,453.85 2,831.37 3,397.64 3,963.91 Rhoose 1,103.40 1,287.30 1,471.20 1,655.10 2,022.90 2,390.70 2,758.50 3,310.20 3,861.90 St.Athan 1,136.73 1,326.19 1,515.64 1,705.10 2,084.01 2,462.92 2,841.83 3,410.20 3,978.57 St.Brides Major 1,118.73 1,305.19 1,491.64 1,678.10 2,051.01 2,423.92 2,796.83 3,356.20 3,915.57 St.Donats 1,119.70 1,306.32 1,492.93 1,679.55 2,052.78 2,426.02 2,799.25 3,359.10 3,918.95 St.Georges & St.Brides-Super-Ely 1,124.15 1,311.50 1,498.86 1,686.22 2,060.94 2,435.65 2,810.37 3,372.44 3,934.51 St.Nicholas and Bonvilston 1,161.70 1,355.32 1,548.93 1,742.55 2,129.78 2,517.02 2,904.25 3,485.10 4,065.95 Sully and Lavernock 1,126.66 1,314.44 1,502.21 1,689.99 2,065.54 2,441.10 2,816.65 3,379.98 3,943.31 Welsh St.Donats 1,119.41 1,305.98 1,492.55 1,679.12 2,052.26 2,425.40 2,798.53 3,358.24 3,917.95 Wenvoe 1,121.88 1,308.86 1,495.84 1,682.82 2,056.78 2,430.74 2,804.70 3,365.64 3,926.58 Wick 1,114.25 1,299.95 1,485.66 1,671.37 2,042.79 2,414.20 2,785.62 3,342.74 3,899.86 being the amounts given by multiplying the amounts at (2)(g) and (2)(h) above by the number which, in the proportion set out in Section 5 (1/1A) of the Act, is applicable to dwellings listed in a particular valuation band divided by the number which in that proportion is applicable to dwellings listed in valuation band D, calculated by the Council, in accordance with Section 36 (1) of the Act, as the amounts to be taken into account for the year in respect of categories of dwellings listed in different valuation bands. (3) That it be noted that for the year 2025/26 the Police and Crime Commissioner for South Wales has stated the following amounts in precepts issued to the Council in accordance with Section 40 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, for each of the categories of dwellings shown below:- No. £ Valuation Bands A B C D E F G H I 252.45 294.52 336.60 378.67 462.82 546.97 631.12 757.34 883.56 (4) That, having calculated the aggregate in each case of the amounts at (2)(i) and (3) above , The Vale of Glamorgan County Borough Council , in accordance with Section 30 (2) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, hereby sets the following amounts as the amounts of Council Tax for the year 2025/26. Part of the Council's Area £ Valuation Bands £ A B C D E F G H I Barry 1,398.08 1,631.08 1,864.10 2,097.11 2,563.14 3,029.16 3,495.19 4,194.22 4,893.25 Colwinston 1,391.61 1,623.54 1,855.48 2,087.41 2,551.28 3,015.15 3,479.02 4,174.82 4,870.62 Cowbridge with Llanblethian 1,434.19 1,673.22 1,912.25 2,151.28 2,629.34 3,107.41 3,585.47 4,302.56 5,019.65 Dinas Powys 1,381.09 1,611.27 1,841.45 2,071.63 2,531.99 2,992.36 3,452.72 4,143.26 4,833.80 Ewenny 1,391.02 1,622.85 1,854.69 2,086.52 2,550.19 3,013.86 3,477.54 4,173.04 4,868.54 Llancarfan 1,378.94 1,608.75 1,838.58 2,068.40 2,528.05 2,987.69 3,447.34 4,136.80 4,826.26 Llandough 1,405.56 1,639.81 1,874.08 2,108.33 2,576.85 3,045.37 3,513.89 4,216.66 4,919.43 Llandow 1,373.91 1,602.89 1,831.88 2,060.86 2,518.83 2,976.80 3,434.77 4,121.72 4,808.67 Llanfair 1,365.89 1,593.53 1,821.19 2,048.83 2,504.13 2,959.42 3,414.72 4,097.66 4,780.60 Llangan 1,372.56 1,601.32 1,830.08 2,058.84 2,516.36 2,973.88 3,431.40 4,117.68 4,803.96 Llanmaes 1,393.21 1,625.41 1,857.61 2,089.81 2,554.21 3,018.62 3,483.02 4,179.62 4,876.22 Llantwit Major 1,404.18 1,638.21 1,872.24 2,106.27 2,574.33 3,042.39 3,510.45 4,212.54 4,914.63 Michaelston 1,377.15 1,606.67 1,836.20 2,065.72 2,524.77 2,983.82 3,442.87 4,131.44 4,820.01 Penarth 1,416.01 1,652.01 1,888.01 2,124.01 2,596.01 3,068.02 3,540.02 4,248.02 4,956.02 Pendoylan 1,373.11 1,601.96 1,830.81 2,059.66 2,517.36 2,975.07 3,432.77 4,119.32 4,805.87 Penllyn 1,365.02 1,592.52 1,820.03 2,047.53 2,502.54 2,957.55 3,412.55 4,095.06 4,777.57 Peterston-Super-Ely 1,385.00 1,615.82 1,846.66 2,077.49 2,539.16 3,000.82 3,462.49 4,154.98 4,847.47 Rhoose 1,355.85 1,581.82 1,807.80 2,033.77 2,485.72 2,937.67 3,389.62 4,067.54 4,745.46 St.Athan 1,389.18 1,620.71 1,852.24 2,083.77 2,546.83 3,009.89 3,472.95 4,167.54 4,862.13 St.Brides Major 1,371.18 1,599.71 1,828.24 2,056.77 2,513.83 2,970.89 3,427.95 4,113.54 4,799.13 St.Donats 1,372.15 1,600.84 1,829.53 2,058.22 2,515.60 2,972.99 3,430.37 4,116.44 4,802.51 St.Georges & St.Brides-Super- Ely 1,376.60 1,606.02 1,835.46 2,064.89 2,523.76 2,982.62 3,441.49 4,129.78 4,818.07 St.Nicholas and Bonvilston 1,414.15 1,649.84 1,885.53 2,121.22 2,592.60 3,063.99 3,535.37 4,242.44 4,949.51 Sully and Lavernock 1,379.11 1,608.96 1,838.81 2,068.66 2,528.36 2,988.07 3,447.77 4,137.32 4,826.87 Welsh St.Donats 1,371.86 1,600.50 1,829.15 2,057.79 2,515.08 2,972.37 3,429.65 4,115.58 4,801.51 Wenvoe 1,374.33 1,603.38 1,832.44 2,061.49 2,519.60 2,977.71 3,435.82 4,122.98 4,810.14 Wick 1,366.70 1,594.47 1,822.26 2,050.04 2,505.61 2,961.17 3,416.74 4,100.08 4,783.42 (5) T H A T discount for prompt payment of the Council Tax be not granted. (6) T H A T the Common Seal be affixed to the said Council Tax. (7) T H A T notices of the making of the said Council Taxes signed by the Chief Executive be given by advertisement in the local press under Section 38 (2) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992. Reason for decisions (1-7) In order to set the Council Tax for 2025/26.
RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the report and appendices, together with the views of the Governance and Audit Committee, be noted. (2) T H A T the Council’s response to the Panel Performance Assessment be approved. Reasons for decisions (1) Having regard to the contents of the report, the views of the Governance and Audit Committee and the discussions held at the meeting. (2) To comply with the requirement for the Council to publish its response and action upon recommendations arising from the Panel Performance Assessment. VALE 2030 – DRAFT VALE OF GLAMORGAN CORPORATE PLAN 2025-30 (REF) The Leader presented the draft Corporate Plan which had been shared with all Scrutiny Committees and subject to significant consultation. They outlined there were five well-being objectives which would help both the residents, Council and partners to improve well-being in the Vale of Glamorgan. The Leader drew attention to two key elements of the report, the first being what had changed as a result of consultation, and secondly, how the Council would work with partners in the future. Councillor Carroll did not feel that the Corporate Plan would improve performance, as there was not an emphasis on providing the best service for the best price, a concern that he had previously raised at Corporate Performance and Resources Scrutiny Committee. He stated that the Plan’s focus should be on improving productivity and ensuring value for money, and referenced that equality, diversity, and inclusion were mentioned a significant amount of times. Councillor Haynes indicated that he found the document disturbing. He stated that what was happening in St. Athan, such as building on land, was against this strategy, and believed placemaking should be the priority. Councillor Hooper reflected that there was a huge value in diversity, which the Council should be supporting. He felt blanket statements around equalities and productivity were false and could not be applied to public sector. He also emphasised the need to reshape services and the need to do the same things more efficiently. Councillor Wilson stated that he felt the Plan reflected the values of the Council, and there were lots of references to operational services such as recycling, waste and green spaces. He shared that he was proud of the Corporate Plan which was ambitious to residents. Councillor Dr. Johnson acknowledged that there had been a number of iterations of the Plan, which was better for it. He felt the Plan was ambitious in achieving its aims and objectives, and that the challenge would be in delivering this Plan. He stated that there needed to be clear financial resources to achieve its aims, and hopefully in five years the Council would be able to say it had achieved the objectives of the Plan. He also stated that there needed to be alignment between the Corporate Plan objectives and scrutiny structure. Councillor Dr. Johnson also reflected on previous comments surrounding equalities and suggested that this incorrect information may be due to a misarticulation of the Equality Impact Assessment information and advised that better analysis should be undertaken before presenting as fact. Councillor Sivagnanam was very proud to support an ambitious Plan with how the Council supported residents, believed this would help to create a more equal Vale of Glamorgan, what was the focus on helping the most disadvantaged. She also reflected upon some of the Council's work on improvement equality such as its Age Friendly status and Her Voice Wales project. Councillor John was delighted to support the Plan and urged people to read it as it contains a lot of information. He also offered thanks to officers. Councillor Cave shared that they did not feel things in the in the Council were even more equal. For example, the building on green sites despite opposition and the inability to replace the village hall roof. They also reflected upon the need to use technology to improve services. Councillor Hodges stated that a Corporate Plan required funding, and was concerned that the economy was not improving to support. He felt that tourism tax and devolving the Crown Estate were opportunities to increase funding. Councillor Perry highlighted the limited investment in the future such as green technology and active travel. He also identified rural poverty, which existed in the Vale. He felt the Town and Community Councils could be doing more and taking on additional responsibilities. Councillor Perry also questioned if the Plan was adding value or if this would be delivered anyway. He also emphasised the need for more diversity and increased opinions, including communicating cross party, as there were talented people who could influence policy. The Leader responded that there were a range of unique services delivered by the Council, which would cost significant sums to deliver, so they were not able to be outsourced. They also shared a Place Making Toolkit which could be used by all Members to support placemaking within communities. The Leader also acknowledge that not all Members’ talents were being utilised and considered this a key part of scrutiny proposals, and emphasised that the Plan and all Members needed to be ambitious for the residents of the Vale of Glamorgan. A recorded vote took place on the recommendations as contained within the report, as follows: Members For Against Abstain Anne Asbrey √ Julie Aviet √ Gareth Ball √ Rhiannon Birch √ Bronwen Brooks √ Gillian Bruce √ Ian Buckley √ Lis Burnett √ Samantha Campbell √ George Carroll √ Christine Cave √ Charles Champion Janice Charles √ Millie Collins √ Marianne Cowpe √ Pamela Drake √ Vincent Driscoll √ Anthony Ernest √ Christopher Franks √ Wendy Gilligan √ Russell Godfrey √ Emma Goodjohn √ Ewan Goodjohn √ Stephen Haines √ Sally Hanks √ William Hennessy √ Nic Hodges √ Mark Hooper √ Catherine Iannucci-Williams √ Gwyn John √ Dr. Ian Johnson √ Susan Lloyd-Selby √ Belinda Loveluck-Edwards √ Julie Lynch-Wilson √ Kevin Mahoney √ Naomi Marshallsea √ Michael Morgan √ Jayne Norman √ Helen Payne √ Sandra Perkes √ Ian Perry √ Joanna Protheroe √ Ruba Sivagnanam √ Carys Stallard √ Neil Thomas √ Rhys Thomas √ Steffan Wiliam √ Margaret Wilkinson √ Eddie Williams √ Mark Wilson √ Nicholas Wood √ TOTAL 37 13 The vote being carried, it was RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the Vale 2030 draft Corporate Plan (Appendix A to the report) be approved. (2) T H A T delegated authority be granted to the Director of Corporate Resources, in consultation with the Executive Leader and Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources, to make any factual updates to the content of the Plan prior to publication (for example, information relating to budgetary information). Reasons for decisions (1) Having regard to the contents of the report and discussions held at the meeting. (2) To ensure the Corporate Plan, ‘Vale 2030’ when published, contained the most up to date information available (for example information regarding the budget for 2025-26). N.B. Councillor Champion was not present for the vote. CAPITAL STRATEGY AND INVESTMENT PROGRAMME 2025/26 TO 2029/30 (REF) The Leader outlined the proposed strategy for the Capital Programme which had been developed on the basis of varying factors such as annual settlements, capital receipts and the impact of the wider labour market. They outlined that the proposal was a mixture of grant and borrowing, and an increase from previous years, which was expected to be £434m in the coming years, of which a significant proportion related to schools and housing. Councillor Dr. Johnson indicated support for the Capital Strategy with the majority belonging to building Council housing or schools, which Plaid Cymru supported. He reflected upon the challenge of year-on-year confirmation from Welsh Government surrounding funding making it a challenge to plan for the future. Councillor Perkes welcomed the Strategy as housing was key, and there had been significant achievements, such as the building of 82 new homes, and the upcoming partnership with Cardiff Council, which offered the opportunity to build more for less. They shared that they felt a decent life was the first step to success in life. RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the Capital Strategy 2025/26, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report, be approved. (2) T H A T the final Capital Programme for the years 2025/26 to 2029/30, as set out in Appendix 2 to the report, be approved. (3) T H A T Officers be granted delegated authority to vire £10k or below between schemes that were already approved within the five year Capital Programme. (4) T H A T the Chief Executive and the Head of Finance / Section 151 Officer, in consultation with the Executive Leader and Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources, be granted delegated authority to make additions, deletions or transfers to or from the: i. 2025/26 to 2029/30 Housing Improvement Programme as appropriate. ii. 2025/26 to 2029/30 Asset Renewal budgets as appropriate. iii. S106 funded schemes subject to Member consultation as required under the existing process. iv. Decarbonisation Schemes. v. Building Strong Communities Fund schemes. vi. Sustainable Communities for Learning programme. vii. Discretionary Adaption Grant Schemes. viii. Vale Regeneration Schemes. ix. Shared Prosperity Fund. Reasons for decisions (1) To approve the Capital Strategy for 2025/26. (2) To set and approve future Capital Programmes to 2029/30. (3) To enable officers to progress schemes more quickly where low value virements below £10k were required. (4) To enable the Housing Improvement Programme budget, Asset Renewal budgets, S106 schemes, Decarbonisation Schemes, Building Stronger Communities Fund, Sustainable Communities for Learning programme, Discretionary Adaption Grant Schemes, Vale Regeneration schemes and Shared Prosperity Fund to be managed effectively. TREASURY MANAGEMENT AND INVESTMENT STRATEGY 2025/26 AND UPDATE FOR 2024/25 (REF) The Leader presented an overview of treasury management as the need to demonstrate financial sustainability was important, and that Members should have recently undertaking training surrounding this area. They shared around revised estimates in expenditure, and wider prudential indicators, and outlined the Council’s borrowing position and wider investments. RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the revised policy for making Minimum Revenue Provision from 2024/25 onwards be approved. (2) T H A T the proposed 2025/26 Treasury Management and Investment Strategy be approved, including the following specific resolutions (detailed in Appendix 2 to the report): • The Authorised Limit for External Debt be set at £265.394m for 2024/25, £296.207m for 2025/26, £331.078m for 2026/27 and £381.753m for 2027/28. • The Operational Boundary for External Debt be set at £244.170m for 2024/25, £263.914m for 2025/26, £297.677m for 2026/27 and £347.407m for 2027/28. • The Head of Finance/Section 151 Officer be given delegated authority within the total Authorised Limit and Operational Boundary as estimated for individual years to effect movement between the separately agreed limits for borrowing and other long-term liabilities. • An upper limit of £0m for 2024/25, £10m in 2025/26, £10m in 2026/27 and £10m in 2027/28 be set for total principal sums invested for over 364 days. • The amount of projected borrowing that was fixed rate maturing in each period as a percentage of total projected borrowing that was fixed rate be set as shown below (and further detailed in Appendix 1 to the report). Table 1 – Upper and lower Limits for fixed rate borrowing Upper Limit Lower Limit Under 12 months 20% 0% 12 months and within 24 months 40% 0% 24 months and within 5 years 40% 0% 5 years and within 10 years 40% 0% 10 years and above 100% 0% • Any breaches of the Prudential Indicators would be reported through to the next meeting of Cabinet, with the exception of the Authorised Limit for External Debt which would require prior Full Council approval. (3) T H A T the Treasury Management Policy Statement set out in Appendix 3 to the report be approved. Reasons for decisions (1) To agree the basis of the Minimum Revenue Provision calculation for 2024/25 onwards. (2) In order for the Treasury Management and Annual Investment Strategy as prepared be approved as required by the Local Government Act 2003. (3) In order for the Treasury Management Policy Statement to be approved. DRAFT BUDGET 2025/26 AND MEDIUM TERM FINANCIAL PLAN 2025/26 TO 2029/30 (REF) The Leader presented an overview of the proposed budget for 2025/26, and shared that this was based on the settlement received from Welsh Government, which is the second lowest per head in Wales. They outlined that the proposed increase in Council Tax was 5.9%, which is generally lower than the Welsh average for the upcoming year, and a percentage point less than consulted upon due to late changes in the settlement from Welsh Government. They outlined how Schools and Social Care are still allocated the majority (71%) of the budget, but that these areas need to be supported and align the Corporate Plan’s well-being objectives of “Best Start in Life” and “Supporting the Most Vulnerable”. They also reflected that there is still a budget gap, which will need to be supported by transformational activity (via Reshaping programme) and a series of savings, which are supported by equality impact assessments, that reserves continue to be held in accordance with legislation and that they will continue to work with Welsh Government surrounding future multi- year settlements to support longer term planning. Councillor Dr. Johnson thanked staff for work on supporting a complex budget and to WLGA in their lobbying role. They also highlighted how the budget proposed spending increases and cuts to non-statutory services, emphasising that they felt austerity was not over. They indicated that the future reorganisation of Scrutiny was essential in monitoring resources and financial proposals moving forward and indicated that the settlement for the Fire and Rescue Service should be undertaken separately as they were responsible for their own budgets, in a similar means to Town and Community Council currently set their budgets. Councillor Carroll indicated that they felt the budget was a reflection of mismanagement, with residents paying “more for less”, such as car parking and waste collection. They also felt that the Council were focusing upon the wrong things such as bureaucratic work and diversity, equality and inclusion, and not its core purpose. They also believed that the proposed budget would have a negative impact to residents, and that the increase proposed was above CPI. They further explained that they felt the issue of productivity was not being taken seriously, and that efficiencies need to be identified as the Council has lost control of its finances, needs a change in administration and should use its reserves to keep the Council Tax rate low. Councillor Franks felt that there has been a failure from the Administration in lobbying for an increase settlement, and more needed to be done to influence government as to how the Council could have the required budget to meet its needs. They queried if savings had been properly costed and impact assessed, as he felt this budget had failed to convince the public surrounding its robustness and value. They also questioned the longer-term sustainability of the budget and cited the proposed reduction in the education as a concern. Councillor Goodjohn shared that the budget in theory was a real terms increase in Council spend, and that it was necessary for the Council to fund changes impacted by an aging population and additional learning needs, as there needed to be a significant improvement in public services. Councillor Hooper queried how car parking charges proposals were reflected within the budget, as it was still in a consultative stage, and emphasised the impact to local businesses and communities. They indicated how they believed this was an austerity budget reflective of wider Welsh Government and UK Government positions. They also reflected upon the importance of Council’s role in supporting diversity, equality and inclusion. Councillor Hodges highlighted the potential 700,000 disabled people who may go into poverty due to welfare reform, and how the Council would need to support these people. They raised the issue of a lack of A&E facility within the County, impacting upon people’s health, and expressed how Welsh Government were struggling to come to terms with issues as highlighted through the budget. They also expressed limited faith in opposition leadership, as he felt comments to be disingenuous. Councillor Perry indicated that they felt we were still living in austerity and seeing rises in poverty. They expressed that recent reductions to overseas aid budgets highlighted how it was easy to pick on vulnerable people. They raised that they felt Council Tax to be regressive and impacted less well-off people more. They also stated that there needed to be more planning for the future and consideration of the new ideas and technologies. Councillor Wilson indicated that the Council was productive, reflecting upon class size ratios and social care workloads, and indicated that the Council was not a sweatshop environment with bizarre productivity targets. They shared that removing bins did not have a catastrophic impact and it only affected a small number of bins (approximately 160) where they were looking at recycling bins, whereas changes to care might have a more significant impact and emphasised that Cabinet were trying to transform the Council to be as effective and efficient as possible. The Leader responded that any changes to how the process for the Fire and Rescue Service worked would be minimal and have no material impact to residents, whilst sharing around the lobbying work undertaken at National level, such as appearing at Committees. They agreed that future Scrutiny arrangements would help with some of the queries raised, as the review was focused upon outcomes. The Leader finally reflected that working with the local MP in partnership had helped raised awareness of reporting mechanisms for pot holes. A recorded vote took place on the recommendations as contained within the report as follows: Members For Against Abstain Anne Asbrey √ Julie Aviet √ Gareth Ball √ Rhiannon Birch √ Bronwen Brooks √ Gillian Bruce √ Ian Buckley √ Lis Burnett √ Samantha Campbell √ George Carroll √ Christine Cave √ Janice Charles √ Millie Collins √ Marianne Cowpe √ Pamela Drake √ Vincent Driscoll √ Anthony Ernest √ Christopher Franks √ Wendy Gilligan √ Russell Godfrey √ Emma Goodjohn √ Ewan Goodjohn √ Stephen Haines √ Sally Hanks √ William Hennessy √ Nic Hodges √ Mark Hooper √ Catherine Iannucci-Williams √ Gwyn John √ Dr. Ian Johnson √ Susan Lloyd-Selby √ Belinda Loveluck-Edwards √ Julie Lynch-Wilson √ Kevin Mahoney √ Naomi Marshallsea √ Michael Morgan √ Jayne Norman √ Helen Payne √ Sandra Perkes √ Ian Perry √ Joanna Protheroe √ Ruba Sivagnanam √ Carys Stallard √ Neil Thomas √ Rhys Thomas √ Steffan Wiliam √ Margaret Wilkinson √ Eddie Williams √ Mark Wilson √ Nicholas Wood √ TOTAL 28 22 The vote being carried, it was RESOLVED – (1) T H A T a Council Tax increase of 5.9% be approved. (2) T H A T the budget for 2025/26, as set out in the report, be approved. Reasons for decisions (1) Setting the annual rate of Council Tax was a key policy decision for Council. (2) Setting a balanced budget was a statutory responsibility and decision for Full Council. PAY POLICY 2025/26 (REF) The Leader presented the Pay Policy, which outlined how employees should be fairly rewarded for duties, which had changed incrementally based on wider changes. They also acknowledged the reduction of the gender pay gap, and the multiple between lowest and highest paid was encouraging. RESOLVED – T H A T the Council’s Pay Policy, as attached at Appendix A to the report to Cabinet on 6th February 2025 (Minute No. C247), be approved. Reason for decision To respond to the legal requirements under the Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (Wales) Amendment Regulations 2014, the Local Government (Wales) Act 2015 and related advice from the Welsh Government as well as provide openness and accountability in relation to how the Council rewards its staff. N.B. All Chief Officers, save for two Democratic and Scrutiny Services Officers servicing the meeting and the Head of Human Resources and Organisational Development, left the meeting when this item was considered. The Head of Human Resources and Organisational Development remained in the meeting, until the matter was to be voted upon, in order to provide any clarification required by Elected Members.
RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C180, 28th November 2024), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. HOUSING PAS2035 RETROFIT SCHEME 2024/25 (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C186, 28th November 2024), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. HOUSING PAS2035 RETROFIT SCHEME 2024/25 (PART II) (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C190, 28th November 2024), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. APPROPRIATION OF TWO PROPERTIES FROM HOUSING STOCK TO THE SOCIAL SERVICES DIRECTORATE (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C209, 19th December 2024), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. CARDIFF AND VALE HOUSING PARTNERSHIP (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C215, 19th December 2024), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. CARDIFF AND VALE HOUSING PARTNERSHIP (PART II) (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C219, 19th December 2024), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. CAR PARKING (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C228, 9th January 2025), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. INITIAL BUDGET 2025/26 AND MEDIUM TERM FINANCIAL PLAN 2024/25 TO 2029/30 PROPOSALS FOR CONSULTATION (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C234, 16th January 2025), as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution. DRAFT CAPITAL PROGRAMME PROPOSALS 2025/26 TO 2029/30 (REF) RESOLVED – T H A T the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure (Cabinet Minute No. C235, 16th January 2025), (as set out in Section 15.14.2(ii) of the Council’s Constitution, be noted. Reason for decision The reporting of the use of the Urgent Decision Procedure is a requirement of the Council’s Constitution.
RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the policy to not grant any level of discount for unoccupied dwellings that have remained so for 6 months which was agreed for 2024-25, be agreed for 2025-26. (2) T H A T the long term empty property premium of 100% agreed by Full Council on 6th March, 2024 for the 2024-25 financial year continue for such properties from 2025-26 that remain so for the period up to (but not including) 24 months. (3) T H A T the long term empty property premium of 150% agreed by Full Council on 6th March, 2024 for the 2024-25 financial year continue for such properties from 2025-26 that remain so for a continuous period of 24 months up to (but not including) 36 months. January 13 Minutes Special 6.05pm (KB) (4) T H A T, as agreed by Full Council on 6th March, 2024, a premium of 200% be introduced from 1st April, 2025 for long term empty properties that have remained as such for a continuous period of 36 months or more. (5) T H A T the premium of 100% for periodically occupied properties for the 2024-25 financial year agreed on 6th March, 2024 be reaffirmed and continue for 2025-26. Reasons for decisions (1) The Council was required to determine its policy on discounts in relation to unoccupied dwellings as defined in classes A, B and C to the Council Tax (Prescribed Class of Dwellings) (Wales) Regulations 1998 each year. (2) The Council was required to determine its policy regarding premiums in respect of long-term empty properties as defined in Sections 12A and 12B of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 as inserted by the Housing (Wales) Act 2014. (3) Upon reviewing the implementation of the premium for long term empty properties introduced from the start of 1st April, 2023, it was felt that a straight increase to the premium levels as previously proposed may counteract the intention of the policy, which was to bring long term empty properties back into use, if the level of charges due hindered necessary works required to make a dwelling habitable. As such it was felt that a stepped approach would be more in keeping with the policy to ensure that persistent long term empty properties were targeted. (4) As (2) above. (5) The Council was required to determine its policy regarding premiums in respect of second homes as defined in Sections 12A and 12B of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 as inserted by the Housing (Wales) Act 2014. January 13 Minutes Special 6.05pm (KB)
RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the final Housing Revenue Account budget proposals for 2025/26 as set out below be approved: Original Change Final 2024/25 Proposed Budget 2025/26 £000 Expenditure Supervision & Management – General 4,695 214 4,909 Supervision & Management – Special 1,949 13 1,962 Repairs & Maintenance 5,000 920 5,920 Capital Financing Costs 5,792 1,097 6,889 Rent, Rates, Taxes & Other Charges 270 28 298 Increase in Provision for Bad Debts 1,027 (336) 691 Capital Expenditure from Revenue 8,197 (1,218) 6,979 Account (CERA) 26,930 718 27,648 Income Dwelling Rents (25,793) (365) (26,158) Non Dwelling Rents (186) (13) (199) Interest (45) (170) (215) Charges For Services and Facilities (684) (133) (817) Contribution towards expenditure (94) (1) (95) Grant Income (205) 0 (205) (27,007) (682) (27,689) (Surplus) / deficit for the year (77) 36 (41) Working Balance Brought Forward as (3,524) (667) (4,191) at 1st April 2025 Working Balance Carried Forward as (4,191) (41) (4,232) at 31st March 2026 (2) T H A T an average rent increase of 2.7%, as set out in the Cabinet report of 9th January, 2025 be approved. (3) T H A T the increase suggested for other services as set out in the table below and in the Cabinet report of 9th January, 2025 be approved: 2024/25 2025/26 Actual Proposed 50 Week Basis Charges Charges £ £ Grounds Maintenance 1.47 1.51 per week Cleaning of communal areas 2.75 3.00 per week Lighting of communal areas 2.51 3.60 per week Laundry Facilities 0.62 0.41 per week January 13 Minutes Special 6.30pm (KB) Window Cleaning 0.18 0.18 per week Lift Maintenance 1.33 1.25 per week Door Entry 0.71 0.80 per week Intercom 0.95 1.29 per week CCTV 0.00 1.43 per week Sewerage Treatment Plants 455.25 467.54 per annum Cesspools 439.00 451.00 per annum (4) T H A T all changes to rents and service charges be approved and implemented from 1st April, 2025, with the first week of April being a non-chargeable rent week and that increase notices be sent to tenants two months in advance of the new charges coming into effect as required by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. (5) T H A T the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan 2025/54 attached at Appendix 1 to the Cabinet report of 9th January, 2025 be approved. Reasons for decisions (1) To facilitate budget monitoring and to demonstrate a balanced budget with a drawdown from HRA reserves to bring the reserve back into balance with the Housing Business Plan 2025/26. (2) In order that new rent levels were set within the specified Welsh Government (WG) guidelines and to meet the tenant notification deadline as required by statute. (3) That charges were approved and to meet the tenant notification deadline as required by statute. (4) In order that charges were approved, new rent levels were set within the specified Welsh Government (WG) guidelines and to meet the tenant notification deadline as required by statute. (5) To obtain Cabinet approval for the Housing Revenue Account Business Plan 2025/55 (draft) prior to referral to Full Council. January 13 Minutes Special 6.30pm (KB)
RESOLVED – (1) T H A T the Council Tax Reduction Schemes and Prescribed Requirements (Wales) Regulations SI 2013/3029 (“the Prescribed Requirements Regulations”) and the Council Tax Reduction Schemes (Prescribed Requirements and Default Scheme) (Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2014 SI 2014/66 be adopted. (2) T H A T any amendments to Regulations made by the Welsh Government reflected in the scheme be noted. (3) T H A T the national scheme be adopted with the following discretions: - Extended Payments be allowed up to a maximum of 4 weeks; - War Widow and War Disablement pensions in assessing income for Council Tax Reduction continue to be disregarded; - That Backdated Reductions be allowed to continue for a period up to 26 weeks. Reasons for decisions (1) In order that the Council Tax Reduction Scheme was approved as required by Council by 31st January, 2025 and in place for implementation from 1 st April, 2025. (2) To ensure that the Council’s scheme complied with regulations. (3) To reconfirm the three local discretions. January 13 Minutes Special 6.15pm (KB)