Agenda item

The Chair invited Nicola Morton, Head of Local Government Finance, to introduce the item.

Nicola stated that the report updates members on progress on the Fair Funding Review and Business Rates Retention reform, and provides a detailed update on the delivery of the LGA’s work programme since the previous Resources Board.  

Nicola drew the members attention to Item Two, Appendix B – the Proposal Evaluation Form.  These criteria will be used by officers and the LGA Fair Funding Review and Business Rates Retention Task and Finish Group (‘Task and Finish Group’) to evaluate future proposals emerging from the Fair Funding Review and provide recommendations to members of Leadership Board and Executive on whether a model, or aspects of it, could be supported by the LGA .

The Chair thanked Nicola for her update and invited members to comment:

·         Members discussed the extensive negative effect of one large employer pulling out of a local area. 

·         Members discussed the problems high-street retailers are facing and their long-term sustainability. 

·         The Chair noted a discussion with one major retailer and the issues the retailer is facing, particularly in relation to online shopping and other online retailers. 

·         Members discussed EU laws and their jurisdiction over the rate of VAT. 

·         Members thanked officers for the good progress and clear summary of item Two, Appendix A.

The Chair thanked members for their comments.

Action

·         Members noted the report.