Decision details

The purpose of this report is to seek authorisation for Cara Brown, Revenues Services Team Leader, to appear on behalf of the Council in proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court relating specifically to the obtaining of liability orders and the undertaking of committal proceedings in relation to council tax and business rates.

THAT:
Cara Brown is authorised to appear on the Council’s behalf in proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court, specifically in relation to the obtaining of liability orders and the undertaking of committal proceedings in relation to council tax and business rates, as allowed by section 223 of the Local Government Act 1972.

Cara Brown’s delegation to represent the Council in the Magistrates’ Court will share the administrative burden of the exercise with other staff who currently act for the Council in such proceedings as well as creating staffing resilience in this vital function.
It is felt that Cara is an officer with relevant experience and qualification to execute the proposed delegation.

The alternative to the proposal would be not to authorise Cara Brown to represent the Council in the Magistrates’ Court. This would mean continued strains on senior members of the Revenues Services team and would not be an effective or efficient use of resources.