Balancing the Budget in Uncertain Times

As the State and County continue to wrestle with their budget challenges, the City of Monterey is gearing up to determine its budget for the upcoming year, and we need your input. Community suggestions are vital to establishing the City’s financial plan, and even more important during these challenging times.

By attempting to live within our means and by setting aside appropriate reserves in the good times, the City of Monterey has strived to minimize reductions in service levels and the number of positions considered for layoff. However, forces outside of our control (mostly coming from Sacramento) may require additional budget reductions as the upcoming budget process unfolds.

We need your input so budget priorities can be set that emphasize the programs and services you desire and reduce or eliminate those programs that are less desirable or no longer necessary. Mid-year budget reviews for the current fiscal year occur in mid to late winter.

How can you participate?

1) Participate in the public meetings and/or hearings during the budget development process, see budget meeting calendar below.

• TBD, City Council to Review NIP, CIP project recommendations, Council Chamber
• TBD, City Council Budget Study Session for Fiscal Year 03-04, Council Chamber
• TBD, City Council Public Hearing, Council Chamber