Budget and Financial Policies

The City of Victorville’s fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30 each year. A fiscal year represents a budgeting and accounting cycle for measuring the results of operations and the City’s financial position. The budget is the most important policy document the City produces on an annual basis. The program and financial decisions it embodies reflect the will of the citizens through the policy direction of the City Council.

The City Manager is responsible for submitting the proposed annual budget and proposed annual salary plan to the City Council (VMC 2.04.150). The Administrative Services Department is responsible for the coordination, development, and preparation of the annual budget. Department Heads are responsible for preparing their department budget requests and revenue estimates in accordance with the guidelines provided by Administrative Services, along with any special budget instructions or direction that may be provided by the City Manager.

The budget is a planning tool that identifies strategic actions for the City for the fiscal year. It matches the financial and human resources available in order to carry out the planned actions. It also includes information about the City organization and identifies the policy direction under which the budget is prepared.

1. Develop and adopt a fiscally sustainable, balanced budget prior to July 1st of each fiscal year.
2. Keep the City Council informed on the fiscal condition of the city.
3. Maintain a reserve for economic uncertainties.
4. Identify resources for Council identified priorities and initiatives.
5. Maintain annual expenditure levels at a conservative growth rate.
6. Limit expenditures to anticipated revenues and designated reserves.
7. Maintain a diversified and stable revenue base.
8. Use one-time or irregular revenue resources strategically and not in support of operating costs.
9. Annually update and adopt the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) budget identifying the specific projects, or portions thereof, that can be completed during the fiscal year with known funding sources.