The Needs Assessment is a process the City undertakes every two years to identify capital improvements needed over the next ten years. The process produces a book which is officially approved by City Council and used in the development of the annual Capital Budget. The Capital Budget is adopted every year as part of the operating budget and lists the capital projects the City will actually fund and address over the next year. It is after this review that the operating budget process really begins. Each department head receives forms and materials for budget preparation, and briefing sessions are held to discuss expected economic trends and conditions for the coming year.
Department heads plan their programs and objectives, and then submit a complete budget request.
The City Manager and Assistant City Manager review the requests, meet with department heads and, somehow, make the square peg fit in the round hole. At this point the Council digs in and reviews expenditures and programs. The Councilmembers draw upon input they have received from their constituents, their own priorities and a great deal of common sense, and subsequently make changes they feel are necessary to the City Manager's recommendations. Equally important, in November the public hearing is held at which citizens have an opportunity to ask questions or suggest changes in the budget. Finally, prior to the December 15 deadline set by the City Charter, a budget is approved by the City Council.