The recent moves made by the Lakeland Board of Commissioners (BOC) demonstrate their commitment to improving the efficiency of their operations. In a series of meetings, they have approved a calendar change that will eliminate BOC Work Sessions and establish two Regular Meetings per month. The Municipal Planning and Design Review Committees (MPC and DRC) have also revised their bylaws to hold their regular meetings on the second Thursday of each month, as reflected in the 2023 Meeting Calendar. This change will allow city staff and elected officials greater flexibility in examining the budget, especially given the complexities of developing the Annual Budget for FY2024.
The forthcoming budget has been developed through a collaborative effort between the Board of Commissioners, department directors, and finance department. The Consolidated Draft Annual Budget is scheduled to be ready for Commissioner review by May 5th, 2023, with the consolidated draft budget being sent to Commissioners by May 15th, 2023. The first reading of the Annual Budget & Tax Rate is scheduled for June 1st, 2023, followed by a second reading of the Annual Budget & Tax Rate. On June 23rd, 2023, the combined budget ordinance and annual budget document will be submitted to the State of TN and GFOA.
This change in the BOC’s meeting schedule is expected to lead to more activity, potentially shorter meetings, and increased efficiency.
