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Sedona City Council Holds Budget Retreat

On Tuesday, December 7 2010, the Sedona City Council held a retreat to discuss the upcoming fiscal year 2011-2012 budget.  As part of the retreat, City staff provided Council with an update on FY2009-2010 Year End Overview, FY2010-2011 First Quarter update, and 18 month forecast. The City is in a strong financial position:


  1. The City has built a significant savings account (reserve) for operations, wastewater and capital which remains despite the downturn
    • Revenue for the first four months of the year is higher than projected
    • Expenditure reductions from the last two years are holding to keep the budget balanced
    • Based on current revenue and expenditure projections the City is in good shape to face its budget next year
    • Recent policy changes, rate increases and planning processes provide a positive long-term outlook for the financial picture


The Council also finalized their priorities.  Based on the discussion, Council unanimously agreed to continue support for the following priorities:


  • Financial Management
  • 89A Safety
  • Community Plan Update
  • Public Communication, Outreach and Education
  • Wastewater Treatment System
  • Sustainability


Planning guidelines for preparation of the FY2011-2012 budget include:


1. Continue limited training and travel program with no out-of-state travel unless

specifically authorized by the City Manager.

2. Continue with the freeze for all vacant positions unless necessary to fill.

3. No new program funding or new positions unless required to fulfill a Council goal.

4. Investigate potential one-time payout to employees.

5. Continue reorganization to enhance efficiency.

6. Consideration of contracted versus internal provision of services.

7. Revise funding approach for non-profit organizations.

8. Project revenue at best estimation levels based on current experience and anticipated local taxes and fees and state shared revenues.


Based on discussion, Staff will continue to finalize a Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), review the City’s investment and fund balance policies, and will continue with the planned increases to Wastewater fees. For more information, please contact the City Manager’s office at (928) 204-7127.

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