Issue - meetings

Mr John Littlemore, the Head of Housing and Community Services presented a report which outlined a proposal to create a policy that allowed (where possible) pets to reside with families whilst in temporary accommodation supplied by the Council.

Mr Littlemore drew Members’ attention to a small typo in the report on Page 14 under ‘Crime and Disorder’, would should have read that the recommendation would have nil impact on crime and disorder.

It was noted that it was not previously in the Council’s gift to allow pets in temporary accommodation.  However now that the Council had acquired their own temporary accommodation; it could adopt a more considerate approach to the issue. 

In response to questions from Members, Mr Littlemore responded that:-

·  the tenant would be given a copy of both documents, i.e. the Pet Policy and the Agreement.

·  the agreement could not be transferred to another social housing provider should the tenant move out.  However, it was hoped that other providers would adopt a similar policy in the future.

Members of the Committee made the following comments:-

·  That keeping a cat indoors who was used to going out may cause its own issues such as behavioural or pet smells.

·  That the list of pets were unnecessary and should be taken out.

·  That should a person have a job that means they are away from home for long periods of time, could some discretion be given in these circumstances.

In response to all the issues raised by Members, Mr Littlemore advised that his Officers would take a pragmatic view on each individual case.

RESOLVED:  That the Committee approve the Pet Policy 2018 and Agreement attached as Appendices A and B to the report and gives delegated authority to the Head of Housing and Community Services to amend the Policy and Agreement as discussed.

Voting:  For:  Unanimous