Forney councilors press for earlier department-level budget detail, capital updates and staffing forecasts

FORNEY, Texas — Forney City Council members used a budget workshop to press city staff for earlier and clearer department-level budget detail, revenue forecasts and updates on capital projects approved last year so elected officials can compare department growth and plan for public-safety and other priorities.

Council members said they received only a “skeleton” of the budget in prior years and asked staff to provide more than last year’s materials but not every single line item. "We can certainly provide it," said Melanie, a city staff member, describing the budget reports and noting that the level of detail the council wants is available and can be generated by running reports. Deborah, identified in the discussion as a city staff member involved in the budget process, noted department operating budget requests are due May 12, giving the city a first look at departments’ needs.

Council members said earlier visibility would allow them to spot…