As an exceptionally well-run City, we will:
- Keep Wichita safe,
- Grow our economy,
- Build dependable, and
- Provide conditions for living well.
Step 1: Collect and Review Data
The first step in budget development is to collect prior-year performance data. The includes a database of more than 400 measures.
Additionally, staff uses data from the prior year Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) to compare actuals to the budget.
Step 2: Budget Development
During this phase, staff from departments meet with the Budget Office staff to review assumptions, revise projections, and consider more efficient methods to provide services.
Citizen engagement during this process includes meeting with District Advisory Boards to inform the public about budget projections and to gather feedback about programmatic changes. There are several public budget hearings during City Council meetings. Additionally, a Social Media Town Hall Meeting will be held on June 23 from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. See "Meetings" tab for more information and additional dates and times as they are scheduled.
Step 3: Budget Adoption
The City Manager presents the 2021-2022 Proposed Budget to the City Council on July 14. The City Council approves funding levels and performance targets by adopting the annual budget. This provides direction to staff regarding what level of performance is expected, and what level of expenditures are approved.
A formal budget hearing will be held at the City Council Meeting on August 4. The 2021-2022 Budget is scheduled for adoption at the City Council Meeting on August 11. Budget hearings can be watched on City 7 on streaming video.
Step 4: Budget Implementation
After the budget and performance measures targets are adopted, staff begin implementing strategies to reach or exceed the targeted level of performance. The process will repeat itself at the end of the budget year.
