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. 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.

More information can be found at the Upcoming Budget Process page.

Auditor Selection Process

The City is currently in the process of selecting the next firm to provide audit services. The Auditor Selection Committee was established as part of this process. The Committee announced at their July 30, 2026, meeting that the request for qualifications will be released on August 3, 2026, with the bidding period closing on August 27, 2026. Interested parties will be able to view the request for proposals and submit responses through the City's eProcurement system.