Assignment Instructions In a paper of not less than 1,000 words (longer is accep

Assignment Instructions
In a paper of not less than 1,000 words (longer is acceptable; don’t skimp when you have something to say!), please describe the following topics in detail:
The role of service charges and regulatory fees in local government
Finding a balance between taxes and economic development
The overall budget cycle (think PLEA: Preparation, Legislative Approval, Executive Implementation, Accounting & Audit)
The preparation and legislative phases of the budget cycle
The role of conflict in budget deliberations
The role of budget reserves
Managing conflict through a budget policy
In a second section to your paper, please consider the following: “Budgeting involves converting data and information on community needs and wishes into an action plan with resources. Economically, the budget process converts the factors of production—labor and capital (money, fixed assets, technology)—into goods and services. The process of preparing a budget is about discovering the linkages between budget inputs and outcomes” (Bland p. 161). Then, respond to one of the following questions:
Does an increase in police officers reduce crime and make our city safer?
How will a reduction in park or recreational services affect the livability of our community?
Does an increase in the number of code enforcement officers improve property values?
Will a mosquito spraying program reduce the incidence of West Nile virus?
NOTE: Some of your response will be your personal opinion (which is good), but consider one of these questions in light of what we have learned about the local government budget process and how the budget is intended to impact certain desired outcomes.