Budget Process
The Budget Process
The City of Farmers Branch's fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30. Each year, the City's budget planning process begins in February and continues until the budget is approved in September. Residents and business owners are encouraged to learn the budget process, actively participate and contribute to shaping the future of Farmers Branch.
Strategic Planning - The first in the budget process
The City's Strategic Plan and Fiscal Year Budget are closely connected tools that guide how the City operates and invests in the community:
✅ The Strategic Plan outlines what we want to achieve.
It's a long-term roadmap that defines the City's vision, goals and priorities - for example, improving infrastructure, supporting economic growth, enhancing public safety and creating vibrant neighborhoods.
✅ The Fiscal Year Budget determines how we'll fund and carry out those goals each year.
It allocates money and resources to the programs, services and projects that move the Strategic Plan forward.
As the City Council continues to work on next year's budget, they need resident input to ensure spending decisions are aligned with community priorities and that the services and programs that matter most to you and your family are included.
Opportunities to Provide Input
- Community Priorities Survey - January 2026
- Budget Town Hall Meeting - August 25
- Contact Us
General Budget Timeline
January
City Council Pre-Planning Sessions
February
City Council Strategic Planning Sessions
March
City staff develops specific programs and projects aligned with the City Council's strategic priorities identified at the Strategic Planning Session. Management meets with the department to discuss and evaluate proposed initiatives for inclusion in the City Manager's recommended budget.
April-May
Budget planning meetings and discussions continue. Management conducts a mid-year review of the current budget. Departments review fees and present any needed changes to Management.
May-June
Staff briefs City Council on different areas of the budget during scheduled study sessions. Finance continues budget preparation. Council receives the recommended budget in late June.
July-August
City Council Budget Retreat; Tax roll is certified by Dallas County Appraisal District; Budget Town Hall Meeting - August 25, 2026; City Council continues to review and modify the budget through July and August.
September
Final budget and tax rate adoption is required by the end of September.
October
The new fiscal year and budget begins October 1