Discretionary Grants Policy - 30 November 2020

Record of Decision Taken by Katherine Marriott on 30 November 2020

Authority for decision

Authority of the Chief Executive RBC constitution Part 3, 1.8 (j):
Functions of the Chief Executive as head of paid service (j) in consultation with the Leader and the appropriate Cabinet member with responsibility for the service area concerned, to authorise the taking or carrying out of action, notwithstanding anything in the Council’s Standing Orders or Financial Regulations, where he/she considers that circumstances exist that make it expedient or necessary for action to be taken prior to the time when such action could be approved through normal Council procedures. A report on such action, and the circumstances justifying the exercise of the delegated powers, shall be made to the next meeting of the Cabinet or the Council as appropriate.

Decision

That the Chief Executive under the emergency provisions within the constitution, approve the adoption of the Rushcliffe Borough Council Discretionary Grant Policy.

Delegated authority is given to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Section 151 Officer to implement and administer the scheme in accordance with the attached Policy.

The Section 151 officer be authorised to approve grant awards to businesses following satisfactory appraisal of the applications received in accordance with the Policy.

In administering the grant, the Borough/District Council will adopt the following priorities:

a) Providing the greatest assistance to those eligible micro and small businesses;

b) Providing support to as many businesses as possible within the available financial resource;

c) Delivering a grant application which is simple, straightforward and makes decisions as quickly as possible; and

d) To ensure that there is proper due diligence and fraud and error is avoided.

Reasons for decision

To adopt a policy to enable discretionary grants to be paid to businesses as part of the Council’s response to the Covid-19 Pandemic. The scheme represents efficient administration of the grant scheme so that delays may be minimised to support local businesses.

As part of the Council's response to the pandemic, it has been necessary to support businesses and respond urgently to ensure that they are able to access funding as soon as it is released.

Appropriate controls are in place to minimise the risk of mis-appropriation of funds via error or fraud.

Alternative options considered and rejected

The Council could choose to not deliver the Discretionary Grant scheme, however businesses severely impacted by Covid-19 would not receive the available support leading to adverse impact on the local economy, increased risk of insolvency and loss of local employment.

The scheme is necessary to support local businesses to qualify and receive the financial benefits of the policy.

Conflicts of interest and any dispensation

None identified.

 

Monitoring Information

Key decision?

Yes.

Do General Exception or Special Urgency Rules apply to this decision?

Yes, as above.

Consultation has taken place with the Section 151 & Monitoring Officer?

Yes.

The Leader, Deputy Leader or relevant Portfolio Member have been consulted?

Yes.

 

Signed

 

 Katherine Marriott