Agency: The City of Stockton 2013/2014 Annual Budget

By: Luke SchwartzPADM 5200

May 12, 2014

Budgeting Processes (Preparation & Approval)

Action Item:• Departmental Input and Recommendations (6

month collaboration period)• Salary projections, operational Issues, related

budgets (income-generating fees, new projects, and council strategic goals)

• Public sessions with city council, commissions, and committees – allows for comments, suggestions and recommendations

• Final Annual Budget Approval: July 1st

Budget Document (Type)

Action Item:• Budget book and staff report to council• Resolution to approve and message from City

Manager (significant impacting issues and circumstances)

• Summarization of citywide budget and organization chart

• Followed by summary of general fund (core ops)– And individual departments/funds

Budget Document (Type) – Cont’d

• Annual Budget Book:1. Narrative2. High Level Summaries3. Detailed Operations

• FURTHER COMMUNICATION WITH PUBLIC– Council Study Sessions (Public Info Meeting during May and

early June)– Department heads present budget and explain ops, goals and

impacts• Late June – New public session and hearing to consider

final budget

Organizational Performance Measures & Problems

Issues or Problems:• Issues with “meets budget” or “exceeds budget”

– Too general; each department has unique considerations • Each department should stand alone• The need for improved communication with

constituents and gaining support for initiatives, programs and services

• Changes with advent of bankruptcy (confidential proceedings)

• Outdated computer system and City Charter

What Works Well

Staff Recommendation:• City Manager ultimately accountable• Informed data and functional experts

(departments)• Budget Department comprised of top analysts– Know the budget– Supported by admin