Budgetary Process

During late May the City Clerk prepares the revenue forecast for the next fiscal year and issues the instructions for budget preparation to each municipal department. These instructions are arranged in accordance with guidelines set by the Mayor.  Department heads work with their Councilmember liaison in prioritizing budget requests which are then submitted to the City Clerk.  The requests are reviewed for accuracy along with compliance regarding budget instructions and generally acceptable accounting principles.  The Mayor, as he determines necessary, reviews and adjusts each department’s budget request.  In August the Finance Committee reviews the budget draft and presents their recommendations to the City Council.  The Council holds two public hearings in September for public comment and discussion.  At the last City Council meeting in September, the new budget for the upcoming year is adopted.