Citizen ' s Budget Guide
State law defines an annual budget as “ a proposed plan for raising and spending money for specified programs , functions , activities or objectives during a fiscal year .”
While this definition may seem simple , budgets usually contain a considerable amount of detailed information . That massive level of detail can prove to be a bit intimidating and difficult to comprehend . The fact remains , however , that a budget exists as the single most comprehensive guide to the services provided for the citizens of a community .
“ Understanding how a budget is created and adopted , and recognizing the key components of the budget document can assist the citizen in becoming ‘ budget literate ’.”
Understanding how a budget is created and adopted , and recognizing the key components of the budget document can go a long way in assisting the citizen in becoming “ budget literate .” The purpose of this guide is to provide you , the citizen , with that information .
Municipal Budgets in North Carolina
Garner , like all municipalities throughout North Carolina , prepares , adopts and administers its budget in accordance with the Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act .
This act establishes responsibilities in the adoption of the budget and most importantly , requires that the budget be balanced ( i . e ., the estimated revenues must equal the proposed spending ). North Carolina municipalities operate under a July through June fiscal year and therefore a balanced budget must be adopted by June 30 of each year . A budget ordinance authorizes the spending , assures the budget is balanced and levies the property tax for that year . Under North Carolina law , local property tax rates may not be changed mid-year .
Public Input
A critical component of the budget process is receiving public input on the budget . Public hearings are held by the Town Council , as required by law , to receive comments on the recommended budget . The Town also uses online and social media strategies to encourage and facilitate resident input in the budget process . Throughout the budget review period , copies of the recommended budget are kept on file for public review in the Town Clerk ’ s Office , in the Wake County Southeast Regional Library , and on the Town ’ s Website at www . garnernc . gov . Take time to review the budget . If you have questions , please contact the Budget Office at 919-773-4417 .
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