Every year, the City of Loveland embarks on a crucial task: planning the budget for the upcoming year. It's a team effort to accurately forecast the City's revenue and expenses. This process includes designating funds for significant initiatives as approved by Council, capital improvement projects, equipment replacement, and managing ongoing operations and maintenance.

Budget Components

The City of Loveland's annual budget is made up of two main parts: the Operating Budget and the Capital Budget. The Operating Budget is categorized by department and specific areas of service, detailing the costs for different programs in each department. Here's a look at the main service areas and their programs:

• General Government: This includes the City Council (Legislative) and City Manager's Office (Executive) and Municipal Court.
• General Government - Management and Support: Covers internal services such as Finance, Human Resources, Legal, Information Technology, Communication and Engagement, and the City Clerk.
• Public Safety: Encompasses Police and contributions to the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority (LFRA).
• Community Development: Includes building inspections, permits, code compliance, and similar tasks.
• Public Works: Manages transportation, street maintenance, facility maintenance, fleet management, solid waste, recycling, and stormwater.
• Water and Power: Utilities such as water, power, and including Pulse, Loveland's broadband service.
• Economic Development: Focuses on supporting existing businesses and growing the City's economy.
• Community Partnership: Addresses homelessness and other non-profit community partnerships.
• Parks and Recreation, Cultural Services, and Library: Includes parks and recreation, the Rialto Theater, the museum, cultural events, and library services.

Within each program, budgets are also broken down into categories such as staffing (Personnel Services), supplies, purchased services, and capital projects and maintenance for a comprehensive view of City spending.

Capital Improvement Program

A Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is a way for cities to plan out big projects that upgrade or add to city buildings and services, like roads and water systems, over a certain period.

The City of Loveland has a CIP that looks 10 years ahead and is funded through various means (including bonds, grants, saved money, fees for expanding capital, and more). CIPs are crucial for cities to manage growth and make big changes carefully. In Loveland, this could mean building or improving amenities such as community centers and libraries, repaving streets, updating water pipes and ensuring the community has reliable electricity.

Find more details on the City’s Capital Improvement Program.