Background – COVID19 has had a considerable impact on businesses. Whilst the Government is offering a level of support, many tenants will still be impacted and are looking at options to ease their cashflow commitments during this period. Whilst arrangements may be contractual, KCC needs to consider its position as a responsible landlord and how it might support its tenants during this period.
Decision – To agree a “COVID19 Response to Rental Management Policy”, reflecting the extraordinary conditions Kent County Council tenants are finding themselves in.
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Affects more than two Electoral Divisions;
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Division affected: (All Division);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 24/04/2020
This decision will be taken under urgency procedures.
Reason for urgency:
The decision is required urgently following the extension of lockdown period by Government to support businesses that may already be struggling and mitigate against some having to cease trading. If this policy is not timely then the effects and reasons for the decision will be lessened.
Anticipated restriction: Part exempt - View reasons
Explanation of anticipated restriction:
Commercially sensitive in relation to KCC's landlord arrangements.
Decision due: 4 May 2020 by Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate and Traded Services
Reason: In order that the proposed decision can be published for a minimum of 28 days, in accordance with statutory requirements
Lead member: Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate and Traded Services
Lead director: Rebecca Spore
Department: Strategic & Corporate Services
Contact: Mark Cheverton, Property Strategy and Policy Manager Tel: 03000 415940 Email: mark.cheverton@kent.gov.uk.
Consultees
Cabinet Committee consultation not possible due to urgent progression of the decision.
Member comment and engagement still possible via normal Proposed Record of Decision process.
Financial implications: The adoption of a rent deferment policy will impact on the Council’s cashflow in the short to medium term, but gives a higher likelihood of retaining tenants by helping them manage cashflow during this period.
Legal implications: The report will consider its statutory and fiduciary duties in recommending a suitable policy.
Equalities implications: The policy will mitigate impacts to community, social and policy orientated services that in turn have a positive impact on groups identified within the assessment.