About the City Budget
The City of Madison’s Operating and Capital Budgets are planning and financial documents that detail how the City pays for services and infrastructure that benefit City residents. The following materials provide an overview of the budget development process and explain key fiscal issues facing the City.
Information Series on the City Budget
- Budget Overview and Process
- Understanding the City’s Fund Structure
- Operating Budget Highlights
Part 2: The City’s Structural Deficit and Referendum
- Understanding the City’s Structural Deficit
- Balancing the City Budget
Part 3: Financial Policies and the Levy Limit
- Role of Fund balance in the City Budget
- The Levy Limit and Impact of Debt Service
Budget Definitions
Capital Budget: The capital budget provides funding for the City’s major construction projects including building new facilities, improving our transit system, maintaining our roads and parks, and purchasing major equipment.
Operating Budget: The operating budget provides money for running City departments and services. It pays for the day-to-day spending on employees and materials and supplies.