We often see it in the comments — a story about a service disappearing or an issue in town, followed by the same questions: why aren't the town council doing anything? What's happening?

The truth is that many people aren't sure where the responsibility of the town council ends and where Somerset Council's begins. It's an easy mix‑up, and one that causes a lot of confusion. Here's a closer look at what Shepton Mallet Town Council really does, how it operates, and how it spends its money.

A council run by volunteers

Sixteen councillors — all volunteers — run the town council. They come from across the community. Some have full‑time jobs, some run their own businesses, some are retired, and others have children at local schools. They give their time for free, and although they can claim an allowance, this council has chosen not to.

To be a councillor, you must be over 18 and have a strong link to the town, like living or working in the area. It means that every councillor has a genuine stake in making Shepton Mallet a better place to live.

The staff making it happen

Behind the councillors is a team of nine staff. This includes a Clerk, five part‑time office staff, and three full‑time town rangers. The Clerk makes sure the council operates efficiently and within the law, while the rangers maintain green spaces, allotments and public toilets. They also work with Somerset Council to keep the town clean and tidy.

How the council works

The councillors sit on committees that focus on specific areas of town life. These committees meet every five weeks and decide on priorities. All 16 councillors also come together every five weeks for a full town council meeting, which is open to the public.

It's a process that allows ideas to evolve into real changes. An example is the new play equipment in Collett Park. It started with feedback from residents, was developed by a committee, put out to consultation, and then delivered by staff. Similar projects are handled in the same way.

What the council does

Here are just some of the services Shepton Mallet Town Council provides:

– Manages 100 allotments across three sites

– Owns and maintains Collett Park, the Market Cross, the Cenotaph and flower displays

– Runs the skate park and BMX track (though the site itself is owned by Somerset Council)

– Supports events like Collett Park Day, the Carnival, the Snowdrop Festival and more

– Provides grants and bid‑writing help for local groups, awarding over £80,000 last year

– Supports economic regeneration by promoting the town and helping businesses thrive, including through the 'Hello Shepton' website.

What it doesn't do

Although people often contact the town council for help, some areas are managed by Somerset Council. These include bins and recycling, council tax, social housing, benefits, setting business rates, births and marriages, highways, car parks, and planning.

How the council is funded

The town council is funded by a portion of council tax paid by residents. In 2025, roughly 13% of the overall council tax bill goes towards its work. The council sets its budget every year, and any money not spent is kept in reserves for future projects. The council aims to hold roughly a third of its annual budget in reserve, making sure it has enough for emergencies and long‑term planning.

In 2024, when Somerset Council announced financial struggles that put vital services at risk, the town council acted quickly. It set aside a £100,000 fund to step in if needed. This meant it could save services like the Commercial Road public toilets and the CCTV network from being lost.

Why it matters

Shepton Mallet Town Council operates openly, works closely with its residents, and delivers the services and spaces that matter to the town every day. Its volunteers, staff and town rangers are making sure that, whatever the future holds, Shepton Mallet is looked after — and that its people have a voice.

If you'd like to know more, you can find meeting dates, minutes and further information on the council's website. Everyone is welcome to get involved.