Collier County contracted with ResourceX, a Tyler Technologies government budgeting software solution, to aid in the development of a priority-based budgeting approach for the FY 2025 budget. This new approach aims to align our county’s allocation of resources to projects and programs that are relevant to community priorities and create opportunities for discussion on revenue generation and service compensation. The Priority Based Budgeting Return on Investment Report was presented at the August 13 BCC Meeting in preparation for the September FY 2025 budget hearing set for the 5th and 19th at 5:05 pm. Public Comment at these hearings can help to shape Board decisions.
One method implemented for this approach to budget review was the classification of County programs into 16 categories based on high/low impact, cost, mandate, and reliance. Next, ResourceX provided five program insight types, including In-Sourcing, Revenue Generation, Grant Opportunity, Efficiency, and Partnership. Reports were sent to department staff to identify which of these insights are currently implemented, which are in the process of implementation, and how many of these insights are possible for future implementation.
The Resource X program summaries and recommended insights appear to be built from the program descriptions, estimated costs, and available offsetting revenues included in the Collier County budget book. The insights identify strategies from other governmental agencies, most in other states or municipalities that have utilized a priority-based budgeting approach.
A summary of strategies proposed by ResourceX can be loosely categorized as follows:
- Increase fees to cover costs of programs
- Implement new fees
- Use volunteers to reduce personnel costs
- Develop/implement sponsorship programs
- Implement subscription services
- Apply for federal/state grants
- Regionalize services with neighboring counties
- Privatize services
As the county moves forward, further discussions on this budgeting approach will set the direction for the September hearings and millage rates to be assessed.