September 2025 City Manager's Newsletter Message

Showing Up for the City Budget

I think it’s safe to say that our community is good at showing up. Uptown Street Fair, Farmers Market, Wooden Boat Festival, County Fair, Rhody Parade – you name it – we turn out in great numbers to be with the people and places we care about.  Same often goes for City business, with people packing open houses, taking surveys, and sharing their perspectives at City Council meetings and forums on issues that matter, like streets, housing, open space, and parks.

But on the City budget? Crickets.

For decisions worth about $68 million, it seems like a missed opportunity for us to learn together (there’s a lot of misinformation out there) and to show up together (surely there are many perspectives out there we should listen to).  The budget is a crucial document for all of us, and explicitly reflects what we as a community cares about and builds the future that we want.

That’s why we’re doing at least two things differently this budget cycle.  First, we are taking it to the streets and going on tour with our “Budget Road Show,” visiting many of the service clubs around town and focusing on budget at the Farmers Market, on KPTZ, and at upcoming community coffee conversations.  Second, we are crafting another short video focusing on the budget and look forward to generating interest and understanding when that rolls out this fall.

I also invite you to learn more on our website (cityofpt.us/finance) and participate in the process.  Every step of the way, you can submit or make public comment on any element of the budget (including what might be missing) and offer your thoughts on main priorities. You can also let City Council know what you think by calling or emailing them directly.

In a time that may feel unpredictable and overwhelming, I commit to delivering a smart, fiscally responsible, and balanced budget to City Council – and to you.  So stay tuned, keep watch for the road show, and get involved.

And speaking of videos, we are also about to roll out a new feature on our website that I think you should know about.  We will be producing short videos, featuring City staff, that answer questions on current issues.  You’ll be able to watch and share these videos which will help us keep you and the community better informed on the issues you care about.  You’ll be able to access these videos and new platform from our homepage: cityofpt.us. 

As always, I invite you to join me at my next community coffee conversation if you’re able, or reach out by email at jmauro@cityofpt.us.