Budget Message.pdf

The City of Baker is introducing its proposed operating and capital budgets for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. The budget process involves the Mayor proposing the budget, which is then adopted by the City Council. The budget is composed of two main documents: the operating budget and the capital budget/program. The operating budget requires a detailed listing of revenues and expenditures, while the capital budget includes expenditures for long-lived assets and infrastructure. The budget is presented to the City Council for review and adoption, with amendments made through ordinances as needed. The City uses various funds for reporting purposes, including the General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, and Proprietary Funds. The budget presentation includes sections on General Fund Revenues and Expenditures, Governmental Funds Capital Budget/Program, Special Revenue Funds, and Proprietary Funds. The City's budgeting process is complex, requiring forecasts and anticipation of future events, and prioritizing revenue streams to accommodate costs. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the budget review and adoption process, with virtual meetings and email presentations being used.