The budget of the City of Palo is a reflection of the City policies, goals,and priorities. It communicates to citizens and staff what resource allocation decisions have been made, including those involving staffing, technology, equipment, and program priorities. It also serves to communicate to citizens and staff an action plan for the upcoming fiscal year, including program goals and the standards by which the delivery of services to the public will be measured.

The development of the budget begins in the fall of each year. At that time, Council establishes policy priorities for the upcoming budget, reflecting policy and program concerns of the community at large. In the spring, the City Manager's proposed budget is sent to the City Finance Committee for review. Then, the City Council discusses the proposed budget during public hearings and adopts a new budget in June. Check the meeting schedules page to attend any of the public budget meetings.