While this is alarming in itself, another story in the Star today presents a concern that is just as remarkable but avoidable. Apparently, the budget presentations (operating and budget) do not allow you or even trained professionals to reconcile what was planned with what happened. The authors of this article Toronto needs a budget that speaks to its citizens Current process makes comparisons between targets and performance almost impossible. Benjamin Dachis and Colin Busby, policy analysts at the C.D. Howe Institute say:
"The city should incorporate performance-based budget measures that highlight objectives in the budget that city departments must deliver. Budget documents should incorporate output measures based on Ontario-wide – and preferably, city-wide – benchmarks aimed at increasing performance. A greater focus on performance budgeting would identify areas for cost cutting, and encourage departments to improve the value of their services.
A budget document should communicate city priorities to both city staff and the public.
A more transparent and accessible budget process will help identify forecasting struggles and missed targets. A forward-looking budget would also deal with looming budget issues, while bolstering public confidence and participation in the direction of financial planning and priorities."
The bottom line question: when will we see city council, budget committee and mayor discussing openly and creditably the tough financial issues of the city and how to present budget and financial data to improve city governance and its financial control? Hopefully we will before City Election Day, 2010.
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