By following clear methodologies that identify the budget challenge, decision makers are in a better position to provide budget direction. Effective engagement with the public provides critical information that illuminates budget priorities. Developing a process that allows the decision makers to make evidence-based decisions is essential to a successful process.

Learn how to identify the key challenges that need to be addressed during the budget process, how to effectively engage the public, and the key questions to ask council when starting the budget process. Also covers the key decision points, the essential steps required to ensure transparency in the priority setting process, and the essential skills required to become an expert at decision making facilitation.

Learning Outcomes

• Learn how to identify the key challenges that need to be addressed during the budget process to be in a better position to provide budget direction.
• Learn how to effectively engage the public through open houses and surveys.
• Learn the key questions to ask council when starting the budget process including tax dollar increases, service level priorities, and split rate direction.
• Learn the key decision points and how to enable the process through effective information gathering.
• Learn the essential steps required to ensure transparency in the priority setting process.
• Learn about the essential skills required to become an expert at decision making facilitation.