2026 Workplan Budget Engagement Commission2026 Workplan Budget Engagement Commission 2026 Workplan
Budget Engagement Commission
2026 Workplan
Budget Engagement Commission
Purpose and Function
Riverside Municipal Code Section 2.90.020 provides the following Purpose and Function for the Budget Engagement Commission:
To advise the City Council on spending and policy priorities based on the information received through quarterly financial and performance reports, including revenues from transaction and use tax, to work with City staff to maximize public engagement on municipal budgetary issues and to provide input on performance measures and reporting programs. The Commission's advice shall in no way conflict with or supersede the powers of the Council or the budgetary and advisory powers of the City Charter created Boards and Commissions.
Biennial and/or Annual Budget Development & Measure Z Reporting and Funding Recommendations Action Items:
The Commission serves as a crucial conduit for community engagement during the budget development process. As such, the Commission will receive reports throughout the budget development cycle that incorporate Commissioner and public input on spending priorities for City programs as well as fiscal sustainability strategies for the proposed budget presented for Council adoption.
The creation of the Budget Engagement Commission was greatly driven by the passage of Measure Z, a 1% local sales tax. The Commission plays a critical role in advising the Council on the allocation of Measure Z revenue and spending priorities. It regularly receives quarterly reports detailing Measure Z spending and program statuses, which are included within the broader quarterly financial reports. Additionally, the Commission is presented with staff recommendations for the allocation of Measure Z funds and offers its input to the Council regarding these requests.
Outcome Reports
Action Item:
The Budget Engagement Commission requests and receives reports from staff that provide essential data and performance metrics related to the allocation of funds. This information can be used to drive decision-making, such as reallocating resources within the program or to more effective programs to promote equitable distribution of City resources.
Quarterly Financial Reporting & Financial Performance Indicators Action Items:
Quarterly financial reports enhance transparency in the City's financial performance and foster accountability in the responsible management of City finances. The Commission will receive these reports, which include budget-to-actual results for the City's major funds, including the General Fund, Measure Z, Electric, Water, Sewer, and Refuse funds. Together, these funds make up over 85% of the citywide budget.
The Commission annually receives a Financial Performance Indicators report, offering valuable context on how the City's finances compare to those of its peers. These performance reports add an additional dimension to the Commissioners' comprehension of the City's financial situation, enriching their contributions to budget discussions.
Collaborative Commission & Staff Effort to Improve Public Engagement Action Item:
The Chair and Vice-Chair will work with City staff to improve public engagement via the Budget Engagement Commission. These efforts would include social media, attendance at community meetings, and informal engagement of the Chair and Vice-Chair with other meeting bodies.