City Manager outlines budget transparency and community involvement in planning process

The City of West Covina held its first Community Budget Workshop on May 29, 2025, aimed at engaging residents in the budget planning process. The meeting focused on the importance of early involvement from city management and council members in budget discussions to ensure community priorities are addressed effectively.

City officials emphasized the need for a collaborative approach, where city managers and department heads would meet to discuss available funds and potential community projects. The goal is to prioritize initiatives based on community feedback, ensuring that the budget reflects the desires and needs of West Covina residents.

Concerns regarding the costs of special events were also raised during the workshop. Officials acknowledged these concerns and committed to providing transparent information about event expenditures on the city’s website and in future presentations. This transparency aims to foster community trust and allow residents to voice their opinions on budget allocations.

Additionally, discussions included the status of negotiations with bargaining groups and how potential salary increases would be factored into the budget. City officials assured attendees that any merit or salary increases would be included in the budget to avoid unexpected costs later in the fiscal year.

The workshop concluded with a commitment to present detailed information on special events and budget options in future meetings. City officials reiterated their dedication to capturing all relevant costs and ensuring that the budget process is inclusive and reflective of community priorities. The next steps will involve further discussions and presentations to keep the community informed and engaged in the budgeting process.