 Since then, in 1988 the new Ilminster by-pass has eliminated much traffic, although the road through Seavington St Michael is still a major access route to the market town of Ilminster.The parish council has responsibility for local issues, including setting an annual precept (local rate) to cover the council’s operating costs and producing annual accounts for public scrutiny.It evaluates local planning applications and works with the local police, district council officers, and neighbourhood watch groups on matters of crime, security, and traffic.