BUDGET PROJECT

Select a local city or county government, state agency, or a nonprofit organization (except schools systems or districts) and prepare an analysis of its budgeting procedures using the following guidelines. It is strongly suggested to select a unit of government or a non-profit in the area where you live. There is a 2,500-word word count, and the student must have a minimum of 5 scholarly sources in current MLA format that are no older than 5 years old. Part I. The budget process/document Discuss in detail the process for preparing and approving your organization's budget. Examples of issues to be addressed include the following: • Who prepares revenue forecasts and when? • Do they have budget policies? o How often are they reviewed? • Where is the budget office/function located? • What are the qualifications of the staff? • Evaluate the budget guidelines. o Are they available online? • What kinds of conflicts appear to permeate the process? • How well does the organization manage conflict? • What is the role of the legislative body/governing board? • How are their policy priorities integrated into budget decisions? • How are citizens/stakeholders involved in the budget process? • What recommendations would you offer to improve budget deliberations? • Discuss the performance measures used in the budget process. • What kind of budget is prepared? • How are revenues and expenses estimated? Part II. Overall recommendations Identify the top 3–5 things this organization can/should do to improve its budget process and documentation. Be realistic when offering recommendations. Are there sufficient resources (time, money, knowledge and skills) to support your recommendations?      

Sample Solution