20 June 2001 Sub

COMHAIRLE NAN EILEAN SIAR

HOUSING SUB-COMMITTEE

Minute of Meeting held in the Council Offices, Stornoway, on Wednesday 20 June 2001 at 9.30am

PRESENT

Mr Norman M Macleod (In the Chair)

Mr Iain Morrison

Mr Angus Campbell

Mr Murdo Macleod

Mr David Blaney

APOLOGIES

Mr George Lonie

Mr Norman L Macdonald

Mr Angus Nicolson

Mr Donald I Nicholson

CONSTITUTION

Appointment of Chairman

30

It was agreed to appoint Mr Norman M Macleod as Chairman of the Meeting.

MINUTES

Minute of Meeting of 27 March 2001 H13.01.02

31

The Minute of Meeting of 27 March 2001 was approved.

MANAGEMENT

It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that, the Press and Public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following nine items on the grounds that exempt information relating to any particular occupier or former occupier of, or applicant for accommodation, provided by or at the expense of the Comhairle would be disclosed.

Appeal Against Decision Not to Accept Housing Application

32

With reference to item 16 of the Minute of Meeting of 21 February 2001 the Assistant Director of Housing submitted a report intimating that Mr AB had agreed to pay a weekly amount towards his outstanding rent arrears. The Director of Social Work submitted a report in respect of Mr AB giving background information in relation to his medical condition, financial and social circumstances and his present accommodation.

The representative of the Director of Housing and Mr Archie Campbell, Member for the Paible Ward, on behalf of Mr AB, were invited into the meeting to present their cases.

Both parties and members of the Sub-Committee were given the opportunity to ask questions.

Following presentation of the cases, the representative of the Assistant Director of Housing and Mr Archie Campbell withdrew from the meeting during consideration of the matter.

It was agreed that the Director of Housing be authorised to accept Mr AB, the applicant referred to in the Report, onto the Housing Waiting List for property in the Uists and Benbecula.

Update of Information on Serious Rent Arrears Cases

H05.01.4

33

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report giving information in relation to serious rent arrears cases which had been determined previously by the Sub-Committee.

It was agreed to note the report.

Serious Rent Arrears

H05.01.04

34

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0510791354. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history.

It was recommended in the Report that:

(1) the Sub-Committee determine the case;

(2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee, the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(3) if the house is re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510791354 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

The representative of the Assistant Director of Housing and Ms AB were invited into the meeting to present their cases.

Both parties and members of the Sub-Committee were given an opportunity to ask questions.

Following presentation of the cases Ms AB and the representative of the Assistant Director of Housing withdrew from the meeting during consideration of the matter.

It was agreed:

(1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £83.89 per week, inclusive of the current weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510791354;

(2) that, if the repayment agreement offered by the tenant was not discharged to the satisfaction of the Director of Housing, the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property; and

(3) that, in the event of the house associated with tenancy reference number 0510791354 being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with the tenancy be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

Serious Rent Arrears

H05.01.04

35

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0510782740. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history.

It was recommended in the Report that:

(1) the Sub-Committee determine the case;

(2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510782790 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

The Sub-Committee noted that the tenant had agreed to offer to pay £90.00 per week inclusive of the current weekly rent due towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears.

It was agreed:

(1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £90.00 per week, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears;

(2) that in the event of the tenant failing to discharge the above repayment agreement to the satisfaction of the Director of Housing, the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property; and

(3) that in the event of the house being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510782790 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

Serious Rent Arrears

H05.01.4

36

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 08034500A0. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history.

It was recommended in the Report that:

(1) the Sub-Committee determine the case;

(2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 08034500A0 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

It was reported that the tenant had agreed to offer to repay £40.00 per fortnight exclusive of the current rent due.

It was agreed:

(1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £40.00 per fortnight in addition to the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above tenancy;

(2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to re-negotiate the above-mentioned repayment agreement, in the event that the above-mentioned tenant's circumstances changed;

(3) that the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property, if the above mentioned repayment agreement or any subsequent repayment agreement agreed by him was not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(4) in the event of the house being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 08034500A0 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

Serious Rent Arrears

H05.01.4

37

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0800936551. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenant's history.

It was recommended in the Report that:

(1) the Sub-Committee determine the case;

(2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with the tenancy, tenancy reference number 0800936551 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

It was reported to the Sub-Committee that the tenant had agreed to offer to repay £60.00 per week, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above-mentioned tenancy.

It was agreed:

(1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £60.00 per week, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears;

(2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to re-negotiate the repayment agreement with the above-mentioned tenant, at no less than £10 per week, exclusive of the weekly rent due, in the event of a change in the tenant's circumstances;

(3) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property associated with tenancy reference number 0800936551, if the above-mentioned repayment agreement or any subsequent repayment agreement determined by him was not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(4) in the event of the house being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0800936551 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

Serious Rent Arrears

H05.01.4

38

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0902342944. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history.

It was recommended in the Report that:

(1) the Sub-Committee determine the case;

(2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0902342944 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

It was reported that the tenant had agreed to offer to pay £230.00 per month, inclusive of the normal weekly rent towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears.

It was agreed:

(1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £230.00 per month, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears;

(2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to negotiate a repayment agreement to ensure that all outstanding rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0902342944 be paid in full by 30 March 2002; and

(3) in the event of the repayment agreement, to be determined by the Director of Housing, with the tenant, not being discharged to the Director of Housing's satisfaction, the matter be referred back to the Sub-Committee for further consideration.

Serious Rent Arrears

H05.01.04

39

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0902343912. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history.

It was recommended in the Report that:

(1) the Sub-Committee determine the case;

(2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and

(3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0902343912 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.

It was reported that the tenant had agreed to offer to repay £60.00 per week inclusive of the normal weekly rent.

It was agreed:

(1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £60.00 per week inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above-mentioned tenancy;

(2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to negotiate a repayment agreement to ensure that all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above tenancy were paid in full by 30 March 2002; and

(3) in the event of the repayment agreement, determined by the Director of Housing with the tenant, not being discharged to the Director of Housing's satisfaction, the matter be referred back to the Sub-Committee for further consideration.

Request for Write Off for Former Tenant Rent Arrears

H05.02.03

40

The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a report concerning invoice number B14133.

It was intimated in the Report that the tenant associated with the rent arrears referred to in invoice number B14133 no longer lived in Uist and that his new address was not known.

It was agreed that the sum of £1131.30, associated with Invoice Number B14133, be written off against the bad debt provision for former tenant rent arrears.

It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following seven items on the grounds that exempt information relating to any particular for or recipient or former recipient of any financial assistance provided by the Comhairle would be disclosed.

Mr Iain Morrison declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter.

Grant Application

H10.01.03

41

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for Improvement Grant in respect of works at Orcadia, Park, Barvas from Mr Calum Morrison, who was the brother of Mr Iain Morrison, Member for the Barvas Ward. The Report indicated that the proposed works at Orcadia, Park, Barvas, were eligible for grant.

It was agreed that the application for Improvement Grant, in respect of works at Orcadia, Park, Barvas, be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.

Grant Application

H10.01.03

42

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 4 Ardroil, Uig, Isle of Lewis from Mrs Peggy Matheson, who was the mother-in-law of Mr Norman A Macdonald, Member for the Uig Ward. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 4 Ardroil, Uig were eligible for grant.

It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at 4 Ardroil, Uig be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.

Grant Application

H10.01.03

43

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for Improvement Grant in respect of works at Fasgadh, Newpark, Laxdale, Isle of Lewis, from Mr A Nicholson, who was the father of Mr Donald I Nicholson, Member for the Sandwick Ward. The Report indicated that the proposed works at Fasgadh, Newpark, Laxdale, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant.

It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at Fasgadh, Newpark, Laxdale, Isle of Lewis, be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.

Grant Application

H10.01.03

44

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 21 North Shawbost, Isle of Lewis, from Mr Donald Macdonald, who was the brother of the Planning Officer in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 21 North Shawbost, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant.

It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at 21 North Shawbost, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals to be awarded in a particular month.

Grant Application

H10.01.03

45

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 5 North Tolsta, Isle of Lewis from Western Isles Care and Repair, on behalf of Mr Donald Maciver, who was the father of the Secretary in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 5 North Tolsta, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant.

It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of the works at 5 North Tolsta, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.

Grant Application

H10.01.03

46

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 6 Lionel, Ness, Isle of Lewis from Mr Hugh Macinnes, who was the brother-in-law of a Senior Building Control Officer in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 6 Lionel, Ness, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant.

It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of the works at 6 Lionel, Ness, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.

Grant Application

H10.01.03

47

The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 9 Cross Skigersta Road, Ness, Isle of Lewis from Mr Donald Thompson, who was the father of a Senior Building Control Officer in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 9 Cross Skigersta Road, Ness, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant.

It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at 9 Cross Skigersta Road, Ness, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.

It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, that the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item on the grounds that exempt information relating to any terms proposed or to be proposed by or to the Comhairle in the course of negotiations for a contract for the acquisition or disposal of property or the supply of goods or services would be disclosed.

Land Adjacent to 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry, Benbecula

H15.10.65

48

The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report concerning negotiations with the proposed purchaser of an area of ground, detailed in the Report, at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry.

It was recommended in the Report that the Sub-Committee determine whether to accept the offer from the prospective purchaser of the area of ground, detailed in the Report, at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry.

It was agreed that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised:

(1) to sell the area of ground at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry, detailed in the Report, on the basis that the proposed purchaser would agree to pay £300.00 plus the expenses of the transactions; and

(2) to include a condition in the sale that the area of ground at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry, detailed in the Report, be only used as garden ground, and subject to such other terms and conditions as the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Director of Housing, may determine.

___

PRESENT	Mr Norman M Macleod (In the Chair)
	Mr Iain Morrison	Mr Angus Campbell
	Mr Murdo Macleod	Mr David Blaney

APOLOGIES	Mr George Lonie	Mr Norman L Macdonald
	Mr Angus Nicolson	Mr Donald I Nicholson

		CONSTITUTION
Appointment of Chairman	30	It was agreed to appoint Mr Norman M Macleod as Chairman of the Meeting.
		MINUTES
Minute of Meeting of 27 March 2001 H13.01.02	31	The Minute of Meeting of 27 March 2001 was approved.
		MANAGEMENT
		It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that, the Press and Public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following nine items on the grounds that exempt information relating to any particular occupier or former occupier of, or applicant for accommodation, provided by or at the expense of the Comhairle would be disclosed.
Appeal Against Decision Not to Accept Housing Application	32	With reference to item 16 of the Minute of Meeting of 21 February 2001 the Assistant Director of Housing submitted a report intimating that Mr AB had agreed to pay a weekly amount towards his outstanding rent arrears. The Director of Social Work submitted a report in respect of Mr AB giving background information in relation to his medical condition, financial and social circumstances and his present accommodation. The representative of the Director of Housing and Mr Archie Campbell, Member for the Paible Ward, on behalf of Mr AB, were invited into the meeting to present their cases. Both parties and members of the Sub-Committee were given the opportunity to ask questions. Following presentation of the cases, the representative of the Assistant Director of Housing and Mr Archie Campbell withdrew from the meeting during consideration of the matter. It was agreed that the Director of Housing be authorised to accept Mr AB, the applicant referred to in the Report, onto the Housing Waiting List for property in the Uists and Benbecula.
Update of Information on Serious Rent Arrears Cases H05.01.4	33	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report giving information in relation to serious rent arrears cases which had been determined previously by the Sub-Committee. It was agreed to note the report.
Serious Rent Arrears H05.01.04	34	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0510791354. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history. It was recommended in the Report that: (1) the Sub-Committee determine the case; (2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee, the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and (3) if the house is re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510791354 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued. The representative of the Assistant Director of Housing and Ms AB were invited into the meeting to present their cases. Both parties and members of the Sub-Committee were given an opportunity to ask questions. Following presentation of the cases Ms AB and the representative of the Assistant Director of Housing withdrew from the meeting during consideration of the matter. It was agreed: (1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £83.89 per week, inclusive of the current weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510791354; (2) that, if the repayment agreement offered by the tenant was not discharged to the satisfaction of the Director of Housing, the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property; and (3) that, in the event of the house associated with tenancy reference number 0510791354 being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with the tenancy be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.
Serious Rent Arrears H05.01.04	35	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0510782740. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history. It was recommended in the Report that: (1) the Sub-Committee determine the case; (2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and (3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510782790 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.
		The Sub-Committee noted that the tenant had agreed to offer to pay £90.00 per week inclusive of the current weekly rent due towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears. It was agreed: (1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £90.00 per week, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears; (2) that in the event of the tenant failing to discharge the above repayment agreement to the satisfaction of the Director of Housing, the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property; and (3) that in the event of the house being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0510782790 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.
Serious Rent Arrears H05.01.4	36	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 08034500A0. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history. It was recommended in the Report that: (1) the Sub-Committee determine the case; (2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and (3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 08034500A0 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued. It was reported that the tenant had agreed to offer to repay £40.00 per fortnight exclusive of the current rent due. It was agreed: (1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £40.00 per fortnight in addition to the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above tenancy; (2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to re-negotiate the above-mentioned repayment agreement, in the event that the above-mentioned tenant's circumstances changed; (3) that the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property, if the above mentioned repayment agreement or any subsequent repayment agreement agreed by him was not discharged to his satisfaction; and (4) in the event of the house being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 08034500A0 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.
Serious Rent Arrears H05.01.4	37	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0800936551. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenant's history.
		It was recommended in the Report that: (1) the Sub-Committee determine the case; (2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and (3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with the tenancy, tenancy reference number 0800936551 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued. It was reported to the Sub-Committee that the tenant had agreed to offer to repay £60.00 per week, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above-mentioned tenancy. It was agreed: (1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £60.00 per week, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears; (2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to re-negotiate the repayment agreement with the above-mentioned tenant, at no less than £10 per week, exclusive of the weekly rent due, in the event of a change in the tenant's circumstances; (3) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection to re-possess the property associated with tenancy reference number 0800936551, if the above-mentioned repayment agreement or any subsequent repayment agreement determined by him was not discharged to his satisfaction; and (4) in the event of the house being re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0800936551 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued.
Serious Rent Arrears H05.01.4	38	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0902342944. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history. It was recommended in the Report that: (1) the Sub-Committee determine the case; (2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and (3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0902342944 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued. It was reported that the tenant had agreed to offer to pay £230.00 per month, inclusive of the normal weekly rent towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears. It was agreed: (1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £230.00 per month, inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears;
		(2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to negotiate a repayment agreement to ensure that all outstanding rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0902342944 be paid in full by 30 March 2002; and (3) in the event of the repayment agreement, to be determined by the Director of Housing, with the tenant, not being discharged to the Director of Housing's satisfaction, the matter be referred back to the Sub-Committee for further consideration.
Serious Rent Arrears H05.01.04	39	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a Report concerning tenant rent arrears in respect of tenancy reference number 0902343912. The Report gave background information and detailed the tenancy history. It was recommended in the Report that: (1) the Sub-Committee determine the case; (2) if a further repayment agreement was accepted by the Sub-Committee the Director of Housing be given delegated authority to seek, obtain and implement a Decree of Ejection, if the arrangements relating to the repayment were not discharged to his satisfaction; and (3) if the house was re-possessed all rent arrears associated with tenancy reference number 0902343912 be written off against the bad debt provision and be not pursued. It was reported that the tenant had agreed to offer to repay £60.00 per week inclusive of the normal weekly rent. It was agreed: (1) to accept the tenant's offer to repay £60.00 per week inclusive of the normal weekly rent, towards clearing all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above-mentioned tenancy; (2) that it be delegated to the Director of Housing to negotiate a repayment agreement to ensure that all outstanding rent arrears associated with the above tenancy were paid in full by 30 March 2002; and (3) in the event of the repayment agreement, determined by the Director of Housing with the tenant, not being discharged to the Director of Housing's satisfaction, the matter be referred back to the Sub-Committee for further consideration.
Request for Write Off for Former Tenant Rent Arrears H05.02.03	40	The Assistant Director of Housing submitted a report concerning invoice number B14133. It was intimated in the Report that the tenant associated with the rent arrears referred to in invoice number B14133 no longer lived in Uist and that his new address was not known. It was agreed that the sum of £1131.30, associated with Invoice Number B14133, be written off against the bad debt provision for former tenant rent arrears. It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 that the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following seven items on the grounds that exempt information relating to any particular for or recipient or former recipient of any financial assistance provided by the Comhairle would be disclosed.
		Mr Iain Morrison declared an interest in the following item and left the meeting during consideration of the matter.

Grant Application H10.01.03	41	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for Improvement Grant in respect of works at Orcadia, Park, Barvas from Mr Calum Morrison, who was the brother of Mr Iain Morrison, Member for the Barvas Ward. The Report indicated that the proposed works at Orcadia, Park, Barvas, were eligible for grant. It was agreed that the application for Improvement Grant, in respect of works at Orcadia, Park, Barvas, be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.
Grant Application H10.01.03	42	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 4 Ardroil, Uig, Isle of Lewis from Mrs Peggy Matheson, who was the mother-in-law of Mr Norman A Macdonald, Member for the Uig Ward. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 4 Ardroil, Uig were eligible for grant. It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at 4 Ardroil, Uig be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.
Grant Application H10.01.03	43	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for Improvement Grant in respect of works at Fasgadh, Newpark, Laxdale, Isle of Lewis, from Mr A Nicholson, who was the father of Mr Donald I Nicholson, Member for the Sandwick Ward. The Report indicated that the proposed works at Fasgadh, Newpark, Laxdale, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant.
		It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at Fasgadh, Newpark, Laxdale, Isle of Lewis, be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.
Grant Application H10.01.03	44	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 21 North Shawbost, Isle of Lewis, from Mr Donald Macdonald, who was the brother of the Planning Officer in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 21 North Shawbost, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant.
		It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at 21 North Shawbost, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals to be awarded in a particular month.
Grant Application H10.01.03	45	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 5 North Tolsta, Isle of Lewis from Western Isles Care and Repair, on behalf of Mr Donald Maciver, who was the father of the Secretary in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 5 North Tolsta, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant. It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of the works at 5 North Tolsta, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.
Grant Application H10.01.03	46	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 6 Lionel, Ness, Isle of Lewis from Mr Hugh Macinnes, who was the brother-in-law of a Senior Building Control Officer in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 6 Lionel, Ness, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant. It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of the works at 6 Lionel, Ness, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to formally approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.
Grant Application H10.01.03	47	The Director for Sustainable Communities submitted a Report concerning an application for an Improvement Grant in respect of works at 9 Cross Skigersta Road, Ness, Isle of Lewis from Mr Donald Thompson, who was the father of a Senior Building Control Officer in the Department for Sustainable Communities. The Report indicated that the proposed works at 9 Cross Skigersta Road, Ness, Isle of Lewis were eligible for grant. It was agreed that the application for an Improvement Grant, in respect of works at 9 Cross Skigersta Road, Ness, Isle of Lewis be approved, in principle, and that it be delegated to the Director for Sustainable Communities to approve this case when the applicant had accrued sufficient points to be included in the tranche of approvals being awarded in a particular month.
		It was agreed that in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, that the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item on the grounds that exempt information relating to any terms proposed or to be proposed by or to the Comhairle in the course of negotiations for a contract for the acquisition or disposal of property or the supply of goods or services would be disclosed.
Land Adjacent to 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry, Benbecula H15.10.65	48	The Director of Corporate Services submitted a Report concerning negotiations with the proposed purchaser of an area of ground, detailed in the Report, at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry. It was recommended in the Report that the Sub-Committee determine whether to accept the offer from the prospective purchaser of the area of ground, detailed in the Report, at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry.
		It was agreed that the Director of Corporate Services be authorised: (1) to sell the area of ground at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry, detailed in the Report, on the basis that the proposed purchaser would agree to pay £300.00 plus the expenses of the transactions; and (2) to include a condition in the sale that the area of ground at 8 Ford Terrace, Creagorry, detailed in the Report, be only used as garden ground, and subject to such other terms and conditions as the Director of Corporate Services, in consultation with the Director of Housing, may determine.