Budget Surplus: Will the People Have a Say?

By its very nature, the budget process remains tough for everyday citizens to become involved in. Complex calculations, endless documents and a variety of technical jargon make the details of the city’s budget hard to understand. Even worse, hearings on that budget usually occur during work hours, eliminating the chance for many everyday residents to make their voices heard. These hearings seldom provide a definite time for public comment, making it difficult for those who do want to comment to plan their day around doing so.

This budget season, however, appears like it may be even worse for residents. City officials revealed a massive surplus late in the process, giving little time for community groups to develop a comprehensive plan for the money that best serves their constituents. And now, it appears many at City Hall are trying to rush through their own proposals in the race to pass a budget quickly, providing a very small window of time for individual voices to be heard.

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