Traditionally, here at the Jersey Shore we see Labor Day as the end of the summer season and the beginning of the fall season.  To those of us who work with fire districts, Labor Day marks the beginning of budget season.  Yes, it's time to think about the 2014 budget year.  In a recent discussion with DCA it appears that the 2014 Budget format will be substantially the same as 2013.  DCA will make a presentation at Wildwood so we should learn more then.  Remember, if you plan to spend any Capital funds in 2014 you must have voter approval for the appropriation, and it must be provided for in the Capital section of your 2014 Budget.  It will be best if you can submit your budget in November and schedule your public hearing in December.  Last year budgets were reviewed in the order of the date of the public hearing.  You could be scrambling at the last minute to get documents on their review checklist.  Have your attorney advise you on the time restrictions and try to have the introduction in November and the adoption...

Is your Board thinking about making a Capital purchase in 2013?  Now is the time to start the process.  Since Capital purchases are outside the Cap, DCA is questioning some of the items being budgeted as "Capital".  Review with your attorney the statutory definition of Capital.

 

All Capital purchases must have voter approval prior to inclusion in the budget.  So, if you have a Capital purchase planned for 2013,  you must have voter approval before you introduce your 2013 Budget.  There are two types of election processes permitted by statute.  One is like the February election where you need 60 days of notice and prescribed hours for voting.  The other method is a special meeting election.  This method requires 10 days notice and the window for voting can be much smaller.  If you are issuing bonds for the purchase, most bond attorneys will insist upon the 60 day election.  Lease purchasing is permitted through the special meeting election.  You must request authorization to issue bonds or lease purchasing if you are financing the project.  You must obtain voter approval to purchase and to finance.

...