Can a councillor present their own separate budget re setting the precept for full council approval?

Question

Should an alternative budget be approved by the RFO before being presented and votes are cast by full council

Answer 1

Yes, they can. Approval by the RFO is not necessary. It is up to a councillor to decide what approach is most suitable in the circumstances. That could involve putting an amendment to the budget proposed by the RFO, or it could be proposing a complete alternative budget. In ideal circumstances, it would make sense to work up proposals with the RFO, but that may not always be practical.