About the Budget Process

The budget process begins in early summer when departments inform the Department of Budget and Management Services (DBMS) of their expected personnel and non-personnel needs for the next year. DBMS prepares revenue estimates and analyzes other resources available to accurately forecast the fiscal outlook for the coming year. 

DBMS prepares the preliminary budget forecast based on the departmental request and estimated collected revenues. A preliminary budget hearing was held in July to allow residents to express their opinions concerning items within the proposed budget. After receiving input from residents, the President of the County Board and DBMS worked with each department to develop a final executive budget recommendation.

The proposed executive budget recommendation will be available for public review at various locations throughout the County and documents will be posted on the main budget page. Public hearings are conducted during which the Committee on Finance considers testimony from service providers, program staff, and the general public. 

After the hearings have been completed and any amendments inserted, the Board of Commissioners approves and adopts the Appropriation Bill, which authorizes funding and staffing levels for each department.