Public Engagement in Budgeting Leads to Greater Trust and Transparency

摘要

Budgeting is a key responsibility of local governments. Engaging the community can inform the budgeting process and help residents understand the city council's vision and the hard choices that budgeting entails. The Great Recession that forced cuts to staffing and services significantly impacted the Town of Paradise, like many California cities. The town began exploring options in 2014 to increase revenue and, in turn, town services. One option was a ballot measure (Measure C) calling for a temporary half-cent sales tax increase. If this measure passed, the town council would need to determine how to allocate the funds. In fall 2014 the Paradise Town Council initiated a public engagement effort to gauge resident preferences around four priority budget areas: fire suppression, police services, road maintenance and animal control.