SIGH - I think we set a record tonight at our annual budget meeting

That's pretty much how our Church is. I guess our yearly budget metting runs longer because of the reading of the budget. We are also very transparent. I run my home group budget as well as the other leaders. The elders approve or diapprove everything with the Pastor, that way there isn't petty arguements over different budgets.

 

Sounds like you guys have a system that works well. Nicely done.


Oh, one other thing: Here is how our budget is done: (it's based on a calendar year)...

September: Finance team meets, reviews current budget, meets w/pastor, then staff regarding next year's "big plans."
October: All ministry heads turn in budget requests. They are "guided" by the pastor...in other words, one year could see a "hey, things are tight; be conservative with your requests," other years, not so much.
End of October: Budget is crafted.
First of November: The finance committee is at church all afternoon to take appointments from members to individually answer questions. Most folks come at that point.
November, 2nd Wednesday: Budget meeting is held in November Business Meeting. The budget is explained in detail. Discussion is allowed.
December, 1st Wednesday: Budget is voted upon. No discussion allowed at this point; it is an up-or-down vote.

it works for us....