In response to the uncertainty of the current economic situation and anticipated material changes in 3rd and 4th quarter revenues in the 2009 budget, the Morrisville Town Council will review a budget ordinance amendment proposed by staff at their March 10th  Briefing Session. 

The amendment will decrease the FY 2009 Operating Budget by $2,790,678.  The recommendation serves to demonstrate Morrisville’s fiscal responsibility and accountability towards transparency in governmental actions.

Town Manager John Whitson commented on the proposed reduction, “We feel strongly that revenues will be down for the rest of the year, and anticipate that we will have to compensate by reducing our planned spending for the year.  We don’t stop budgeting when the document is approved in June.  It’s our duty to the public to continually review the budget and make cuts when we can, keeping in mind the level of service we provide to our citizens.”

He went on to say, “The changes that we have proposed are in keeping with attempting to achieve the Town Council’s policy concerning the fund balance, which is staying above 25% of the prior year’s expenditures. If these changes aren’t made, that policy may be at risk.”

In addition to estimating year-end revenues and expenditures, the Budget process for FY2010 is well underway.  Morrisville Staff and Town Council encourage residents to get involved early, by commenting on the online Budget Portal, attending Council meetings and the Budget Open House, scheduled for early May, or applying to serve on the new Citizen Budget Panel.