Summary: Mr X complained the Council is pursuing him for a historic council tax debt he believes he does not owe. The Council was at fault because it delayed pursuing Mr X’s council tax debt for a significant period of time and now Mr X is not able to challenge it. The Council has agreed to write off the debt and any associated costs and apologise to Mr X for the anxiety and distress the matter has caused him. The Council will also review its approach to historic council tax debt. This will include reminding staff they must consider whether it is fair and reasonable to pursue debt recovery in individual circumstances.

Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about communications regarding Mr X’s Business Improvement District levy. The Council has waived extra charges it applied. We cannot expect to achieve more than that. The law prevents us investigating the part of the complaint about a court summons.

Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about how the Council administered the COVID-19 Restart Grant and Additional Restrictions Grant. There is not enough evidence of fault to justify investigating.

Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about the amount of housing benefit the Council awarded. This is because there is insufficient evidence of fault by the Council and because the complainant could appeal to the tribunal. In addition, we cannot achieve the outcome the complainant would like.

Summary: We shall not investigate this complaint. The Council has taken enough action to put right its delay changing Mrs X’s council tax bill. There is not enough evidence of fault by the Council on a seemingly fraudulent claim for free school meals.

Summary: Mr X complained the Council delayed responding to his appeal against its decision to charge council tax. Mr X also complained the Council sent bailiffs to his home to collect the debt while he was appealing against the Council’s decision. Mr X says this has caused him distress. The Council was at fault, but it has taken appropriate action to remedy any injustice caused by this fault.

Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about council tax. This is because there is not enough evidence of fault to justify investigating.