FILE:  DCC

ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET/PREPARATION PROCEDURES
The annual operating budget is the financial plan for the operation of the Benton Harbor Area Schools. It provides the framework for both expenditures and revenues for the year and translates into financial terms the educational programs and priorities for the system.

Public school budgeting is regulated and controlled by statue, state regulations, and requirements of the Board. A budget is required for every fund that the district uses in its yearly operation.

The Superintendent or designee shall be responsible for the preparation of the annual school budget in accordance with Public Act 621 (Uniform Budgeting and Accounting Act) and presentation to the Board for adoption.

Preparation of the annual budget shall include the development of an annual budget calendar which shall be reviewed with the Superintendent and the Board's Finance Committee annually at the September meeting. The calendar shall set forth time lines for the development of the district's annual budget for the ensuing fiscal year and revisions of current year appropriations. Budget development shall take into account, but not be limited to:

1. the Board's fund balance goal;
2. student enrollment projections;
3. staffing projections;
4. revenue forecasts;
5. instructional program objectives and requirements;
6. expenditure proposals as submitted by administrators;
7. labor negotiations;
8. statutory requirements of "Truth in Taxation" legislation and adoption of the district's tax levy; and
9. the annual audit.

The Benton Harbor Area Schools, Berrien County, Michigan