MP Ian Liddell-Grainger has denounced as ‘scandalous’ a move by Minehead Town Council to saddle tax payers with a near-22 per cent increase next year.
He has accused the council of excessive secrecy - and says it must comply with its legal requirement to open up its books for public scrutiny.
The council already has the highest local precept in Somerset. Next week it is poised to agree a £1 million budget for 2024/5.
But Mr Liddell-Grainger, MP for Bridgwater and West Somerset, said local people should have been consulted about the possibility of such an increase.
“They should have been able to ask councillors why it was needed and what the extra money would be spent on,” he said.
“Instead this has been the usual, scandalous tale of the secrecy and obfuscation which have become this council’s tainted hallmark.
“People in Minehead are already questioning why their local council tax should be higher than anyone else’s in Somerset because they see precious little in return for it.
“To shove another 22 per cent on their bills at a time when hundreds of local families are struggling to cope with the cost of living crisis is completely unreasonable. And when there has been absolutely no prior warning, no consultation, it smacks of complete arrogance and a total disregard for the people who have elected these councillors.
“The council has a legal obligation to open up its books for inspection by the public. I now expect to be told when and where that will be fulfilled.”
