Title
Presentation of the 2016 Preliminary Operating Budget
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The Finance Committee discussed the critical needs at their September meeting, utility rates at the October meeting and will continue budget discussions at the November 13 meeting.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to receive the document and begin budget discussions.
Report
Issue:
Receive the City Manager’s 2016 Preliminary Operating Budget
Staff Contact:
Jane Kirkemo, Administrative Services Director, 360.753.8499
Presenter(s):
Steve Hall, City Manager
Jane Kirkemo, Administrative Services Director
Background and Analysis:
The Preliminary 2016 Operating Budget will be presented Tuesday night, October 27, 2015. The document will be available on the website October 28, 2015.
The budget for 2016 is $129 million reflecting a 3.5% increase over the 2015 expenditures.
The budget does include a 1% increase for property taxes. The Council will need to declare a substantial need in order to receive the maximum 1%. The budget also includes increases in utility rates, impact fees, and general facility charges (GFCs). Following the Oct. 27, 2015, meeting, the Council will hold other meetings to discuss the City’s 2016 Budget and 2016-2021 Capital Facilities Plan (CFP).
• Nov. 10 Council review of preliminary budget
• Nov. 17 Public Hearing(s):
o CFP
o Operating Budget (including Lodging Tax)
o Ad Valorem tax
• Nov. 24 Budget Balancing
• Dec. 8 First reading on Budget and corresponding ordinances
• Dec. 15 Final adoption of budget
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Various pieces of the budget and CFP have been discussed with neighborhood groups and advisory committees.
Options:
N/A
Financial Impact:
The total budget is $129 million. The General Fund, comprised of basic municipal services is $67.9 million representing a 4.4% increase over the current budget.