URL: https://democracy.bathnes.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2369

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Resources

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Cabinet is asked to charge Parish Councils for their election and by-election costs with effect from 1 April 2026 and to approve the methodology for calculating the charges as set out in the report.

Content: To introduce recharges to Town and Parish Councils for all their election and by-election costs with effect from 1 April 2026. The cost of Parish and Town Council elections and by-elections will be met through the parish precept by the local residents of the area where there is an election.   Without a recharge policy in place, all Bath and North East Somerset Council taxpayers would continue to bear the burden of the cost of Parish and Town Council elections, regardless of whether they reside in one of the areas where there is a contested election or whether they have a Parish or Town Council. To continue to organise Town and Parish Council elections at no cost to the Town and Parish Councils.  This option would have an adverse impact on the Council budget for the local government elections in May 2027.

Date of Decision: January 6, 2026