A DELAY in an expected Government decision on whether Somerset Council can impose an 11 per cent council tax rise this year has forced the authority to revise its budget setting timetable.

A decision is not expected until February 9, a week later than anticipated, which has seen the nearly bankrupt council shift its February 25 meeting to March 4 to agree a 2026-27 budget.

Any council tax rise above 4.99 per cent has to be put to a public referendum, but Somerset wants to by-pass such a vote by residents by using an ‘exceptional financial support’ application to Government, the same process which last year allowed it to impose a 7.5 per cent rise.

A council spokesperson said: “The delay significantly affects the council’s planned budget process and limits the time available to analyse the settlement, complete internal approvals, and prepare statutory budget papers.”

Any decision by Government to allow an 11 per cent council tax rise would still be put to councillors for a vote at a full council meeting.

Council leader Cllr Bill Revans said: “This delay from Government is deeply frustrating.

“We are having to move our meetings only because the information we need to set a lawful and responsible budget is being provided later than expected.

“This is not a situation of the council’s making, and it is vital that we have the time required to understand the implications fully and make well‑informed decisions on behalf of Somerset residents.”

The February 9 Government announcement is also expected to confirm whether financial support will be provided for Somerset to help address its £200 million dedicated schools grant deficit.

The council’s executive is due to meet two days after the announcement for a first discussion on the implications for its budget, followed by a February 25 meeting to look at proposed cost savings.