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Published Delegated Executive Decisions

Welcome. This system contains information about published delegated executive decisions, including exemptions.

Decision Number: 0187 2013/14

Executive Portfolio:
Environment and Neighbourhoods
Decision Number:
0187 2013/14
Exempt / Confidential Item:
No
Ward(s) Affected:
All Wards
Declarations of Interest Received:
None
Title:
Fees and Charges 2014-15 - Environmental and Civic Pride Services
Summary of Decision:
To approve revised fees and charges for 2014/15
Proposed Decision:
Following a review of fees and charges in the Environmental and Civic Pride Section it is proposed to increase all fees and charges by 2.5% and to increase certain fees by more based on a comparison with other local authorities fees and charges as detailed below. Bereavement Services Fees and charges have been compared to 8 other Local Authorities and 1 private crematorium. The fees, in general, compare favourably with the comparators and for resident cremations we have the second lowest fee, and the lowest fee of the Merseyside Authorities (see attached comparison information). It is proposed to increase this fee by £28.00 (5.51%). With this increase St Helens would have the third lowest cremation fee and will possibly retain second lowest once the other Local Authorities have applied their annual increase (see attached comparison tables). All other fees to be increased by 2.5%. Careline St Helens Council operates a monitor and response service. Most other authorities operate a monitor only service. It is proposed to increase fees by 2.5% (see attached list). Parks and Open spaces It is proposed to increase all outdoor recreation fees by 2.5%. Trade Waste The fees for additional medical waste sacks and boxes in comparison with Knowsley is very low and it is proposed to increase these fees significantly (see attachment). Comparison with other local authorities for Trade Waste does indicate that St. Helens is competitive on price with most others but due to the competitive market and the fact that a number of contracts have been lost during 2013/14, due to price, it is proposed to increase Trade Waste by 2.5% only. Transport All fees to be increased by 2.5% (see attached list).
Summary of Reason for Decision:
Annual review of fees and charges is required to comply with financial regulations
Reason for Decision:
The annual review of fees and charges and comparison with other local authorities fees has identified a need to increase fees to ensure the council maximises income recovery to cover cost associated with providing services.
Risks Associated with this Decision:
Increased fees and charges may reduce take up of services and reduce income
Measures to Redress Risk:
Fees and charges compare well with other local authorities and increase kept to a minimum
Anti Poverty / Human Rights / Agenda 21 Implications:
Attachments:
Please Contact Tim Jones - Ext 6761 for more details.