The City of New Castle, Indiana

How does government determine the amount of money needed for its operations?

It is the responsibility of the executive branch (Mayor) to prepare a budget for review and consideration by the legislative branch (the Council). Annually, the Council considers and adopts a budget. This establishes or appropriates the amount of money which may be spent in the administration of the City for the calendar year. It is the duty of the Mayor not to overspend the budget established by the Council. Likewise, it is the duty of the Council to provide proper funding for the City so that it may provide the services demanded by the citizenry. Once a budget is established (funds are appropriated), the Mayor cannot spend more than is appropriated, absent a find by the Common Council that there is a need for an additional appropriation.