Community Budget Workshop: March 27, 2025

The City of Novato held a Community Budget Workshop on March 27, 2025, to discuss the fiscal year 2024-25 operating and capital budgets. Key topics included the city's major revenue streams, primarily property and sales taxes, with a focus on the recent passage of Measure M which increased the sales tax rate and is projected to help eliminate a systemic budget deficit starting in fiscal year 2025-26. The workshop detailed the budget development process, community engagement efforts including surveys and public meetings, and the strategic plan alignment. The operating budget was reviewed, highlighting a current deficit and cost containment measures, including maintaining staffing levels with only critical additions. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) was also discussed, covering ongoing and upcoming infrastructure projects funded through various sources such as grants, development fees, and Measure A funds. The meeting emphasized prudent fiscal management, community priorities, and transparency in the budget process, with opportunities for public input continuing through upcoming council sessions and advisory commission meetings.