The budgeting process has long been a cornerstone of local government operations. It's where policy goals meet financial reality. Yet for many years, the public sector has relied on outdated models-designed for stability and compliance more than agility or responsiveness. Now, that is beginning to change.
A national survey conducted in early 2025 by GFOA and civic engagement and data analytics research firm Polco paints a hopeful picture of a sector in motion. The results show
encouraging progress in adopting new practices, greater alignment with strategic plans, and increasing interest in performance and technology. But they also reveal persistent gaps-in public engagement, outcome focus, and modernization. In short, reform is underway, but the journey is far from complete.
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Timothy Martin
Senior Manager for Marketing & Digital Experiences
GFOA
Chicago IL
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