The City's budget serves as a pact between City Council, staff, and residents which details planned revenue and expenses for a fiscal year. This document is developed over the course of numerous discussions between City Council and staff, and residents are encouraged to attend meetings where the budget will be discussed to learn more and to provide feedback.

Budget Process

Below is an overview of the steps taken to develop and adopt the City's budget each year.

1. Beginning in the early part of the new calendar year, secure public input to inform strategic planning and budget development.
2. One the next month, update the Capital Improvement Plan and the Long Range Financial Plan.
3. Over the next few months, update each fund, solicit public input, and provide presentations to City Council.
4. Between June and August, seek budgetary recommendations from the Building Board, the Burnt Store Isles Canal Advisory Committee, the Punta Gorda Isles Canal Advisory Committee, and Utility Advisory Board for their related funds.
5. In July, City Council sets a tentative millage rate and special assessments.
6. In September, hold budget public hearings. Special assessments are adopted at the first budget public hearing. The millage rate and budget are adopted at the second budget public hearing.