More than numbers matter

0

Commentary by Larry Lannan

I have never been excited by numbers. That may sound strange coming from a retired tax law specialist but there are times long lists of figures cause my eyes to glaze over.

For many taxpayers, their eyes glaze over when it’s time to talk about the local municipal budget. The Town of Fishers is beginning to look at the 2014 budget. As a citizen, you need to pay attention to the budget process.

My years of experience as a journalist and a government employee have taught me one important lesson about government at any level. Budgets are important.

A budget is a significant statement from your elected officials. A spending plan provides a list of priorities.

The Town of Fishers has two main sources of income. The largest by far is the property tax. The second largest stream of money comes from the County Option Income Tax, often called COIT. There are a few other sources of money much smaller in size. Some are dedicated specifically to roads or other brick and mortar projects.

The Fishers budget process starts with the department heads sending budget proposals to
Town Manager Scott Fadness. After reviewing those requests, it’s Fadness’ job to pare down all the spending requests so the staff proposes a balanced budget to the town council.

The staff has been sharing the 2014 budget proposals with the council members. That process will continue and the council will have the final say on the size and shape of the 2014 budget.

I have found local government to be the most responsive government. If you have ideas on how the town should (or should not) spend its money, this is the time you, as a citizen of Fishers, should pay attention and speak up.

Your local streets and roads (not under state control) are provided and maintained by the town. Police and fire protection are town services. The town staff provides the upkeep and improvements on parks used by youth athletics and others. The town has a community development department dedicated to attracting commercial development and managing residential development.

As the town staff and council begin to fashion the calendar year 2014 spending plan, budget documents will be placed on the town Web page (www.fishers.in.us). A public hearing on the budget is tentatively planned for the Oct. 7 council meeting.

Don’t let your eyes glaze over. Pay attention to the budget process and let your elected officials know where you stand.


Current Morning Briefing Logo

Stay CURRENT with our daily newsletter (M-F) and breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox for free!

Select list(s) to subscribe to



By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
Share.

Current Morning Briefing Logo

Stay CURRENT with our daily newsletter (M-F) and breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox for free!

Select list(s) to subscribe to



By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact