Councillor Phil Davies introduced a report that brought together related issues relating to the proposed Council Tax Tax-Base for 2017/18, upon which the annual billing and Council Tax levels would be set; the proposed Council Tax Discounts and exemptions for 2017/18 and the Council Tax Support Scheme to be used during 2017/18. All of which needed to be approved by Council by 31 January 2017.

Councillor Janette Williamson highlighted the increase in domestic abuse in Wirral and that the Council was honouring its pledge of zero tolerance to domestic violence.  Councillor Davies replied that he was proud the Council was continuing to provide discounts to services that carried out fantastic work in the Borough.

RESOLVED: That it be recommended to Council that

(1)  the figure of 91,309.5 be approved as the Council Tax-Base for 2017/18;

(2)  the level and award of each local discount for 2017/18 be:-

Wirral Women’s & Children’s Aid

To award the Refuge discount of 50% and the Flat’s Discount of 75%.

Empty Property Discounts

The discount and premium rate charges remain unchanged for 2017/18:-

Discount category D = 0% Full charge on properties undergoing renovations.

Discount category C = 0%. Full charge on empty properties from date they become unoccupied.

Empty Property Premium = 150%. Properties empty for more than two years

Council Tax Discretionary Relief Scheme

The Council Tax Discretionary Hardship Relief Scheme continues in its current format for 2017/18; and

(3)  the Council Tax Support Scheme approved for use in 2016/17 be also approved as the Scheme for 2017/18.