Decisions

To provide an update on Cherwell’s participation within the Government’s Vulnerable Person’s Relocation Scheme (VPRS) and recommend its continued participation in the new global initiative to resettle 5,000 refugees from April 2020

Decision non-key

Resolved

(1)      That Cherwell District Council’s participation in the new global scheme which begins in April 2020 be supported.

(2)      That a further 6 families for resettlement under the new scheme be accepted.

To consider the report of the independent examiner on the Weston-on-the-Green Neighbourhood Plan. The Council as the Local Planning Authority is required to consider the report's recommendations; determine whether the Plan, incorporating modifications, should proceed to a referendum; and, confirm the area covered by the referendum

Resolved

(1)      That the Examiner’s recommendations and modifications (Appendices 1 and 2), with the exception of Modifications 15, 21, 24, 26 and 27 be approved.

(2)      That the issuing of a 'decision statement' confirming the Executive’s decision and to invite representations on the Council’s proposed amendments to Modifications 15 and 21, and consequential changes required to Modifications 24, 26 and 27, of the Examiner’s report be authorised.

(3)      It be agreed to not proceed to referendum on the Weston on the Green Neighbourhood Plan at this time.

(4)      That the area for the future referendum as being the designated Neighbourhood Plan area in accordance with the examiner's recommendations, noting that there will be no extension to the area be approved.

To consider a review of the Public Space Protection Order

Resolved

(1)      That the renewal of the Public Spaces Protection Order in Banbury Town Centre be approved.

(2)      That the prohibition on rough sleeping be removed from the Public Spaces Protection Order in Banbury Town Centre be approved.

To consider the monthly performance, finance and risk monitoring report

Resolved

(1)      That the monthly Performance, Risk and Finance Monitoring Report be noted.

To consider care leavers council tax exemption

Resolved

(1)      That the Care Leavers are determined as a class for the purpose of Section 13A(1)c  of The Local Government Finance Act 1992 be approved.

(2)      That the implementation of a Council Tax Discount for Care Leavers from 1 April 2020 be approved.

(3)      That the Memorandum of Understanding as an agreement between the Oxfordshire Authorities to share the financial commitment to support care Leavers be approved.

(4)      That the Authorities should approach Thames Valley Police and town and parish councils to make a financial contribution proportionate to their precepts.         

Resolved

(1)      That the report be noted.

Resolved

(1)      That the report and financial implications for the Council be noted.

(2)      That Option 1, a new banded income Council Tax Reduction Scheme for those of working age, be recommended to Executive for consideration as the Council Tax Scheme for 2020-2021

(3)      That, having given due consideration, Executive be recommended to retain the following level of Council Tax discounts and premiums for 2020-2021:

·         Discount for second homes at zero

·         Discount for empty homes (unoccupied and substantially unfurnished) at 25% for 6 months and thereafter at zero

·         The discount for empty homes undergoing major repairs at 25% for 12 months and thereafter at zero

·         The empty homes premium of an additional 100% for properties that have remained empty for more than 2 years

Resolved

(1)      That the verbal update be noted.