The economic recession has taken its toll on municipal governments nationwide and created unstable operating environments for cities small and large. However, the City of Kirkland is recalibrating and looking forward as the 2013-2014 biennial budget process gets underway.

A Public Hearing on proposed revenue sources is scheduled to be held at the September 18 City Council Meeting here at City Hall.  Council members will also receive an update on the City’s financial condition and information regarding revenue assumptions for the pending budget, including possible increases in property tax revenues.

The public is invited and highly encouraged to comment on the proposed revenue sources and the preliminary 2013-2018 Capital Improvement Program during this meeting. The City of Kirkland Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is a six-year plan that addresses construction, repair, maintenance and acquisition of major capital facilities and equipment.

The Kirkland City Council is making every effort to keep the public informed about the budget process and seeks early and continuing input from community members.  The City budget process determines the types and levels of services that the City can provide.  Residents and businesses are encouraged to attend public hearings, submit questions, priorities and concerns via email (13-14budget@kirklandwa.gov), and participate in neighborhood association meetings.

The City Manager’s Recommended Budget will be available online by October 16.  The City Council is tentatively scheduled to deliberate the proposed budget at council meetings and study sessions October 25, November 7 and November 20.  The Council is expected to adopt the budget, final property tax levy, and CIP at its December 11 meeting. Additional meetings and special sessions may be scheduled and will be posted on the city website when changes occur.

To receive email updates on the 2013-2014 Budget, City Council Agendas and other city information, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/e-bulletins.