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City seeks public submissions for 2016 budget

The City of Lacombe is affirming its commitment to an open, transparent and citizen-centred approach by seeking public submissions

The City of Lacombe is affirming its commitment to an open, transparent and citizen-centred approach by seeking public submissions for council consideration towards the 2016 operating and capital budgets.

“Council initiated the successful Citizen Submission Program last year in order to further engage with our residents and to solicit their comments and suggestions regarding citizen priorities for next year’s budget,” said Mayor Steve Christie. “This year, public submissions will be received between June 1st and June 30th, so that we can start establishing 2016 budget priorities.”

Revenue forecasts will be provided in August prior to the development of departmental budget, giving managers a clearer picture of what is available to their respective departments.

“The City may not be able to incorporate all of the input that is received into next year’s budget, but each public submission will be carefully reviewed and evaluated,” said Chief Administrative Officer Norma MacQuarrie. “Staff will develop the draft budgets over the summer months that align with council’s priorities and are within the limits imposed by our rates and fees.”

Annual budgets are drafted by administration before being debated and adopted by council. The final budget, inclusive of public comments, will be announced in December and will be shared publicly.

Council, staff and residents will all contribute to the 2016 budget with an objective of finding the right balance between investing in quality public service and keeping Lacombe tax rates low without compromising service levels.