The City of Marfa budget is a detailed operating plan that serves many purposes.
- It identifies estimated costs and activities as related to estimated revenues—reflecting the policies, priorities, and values of the Mayor and City Council.
- It's a communication tool that presents the provided services and how much those services cost.
- It acts as a financial management and planning tool for City management and staff to use in guiding spending decisions.
- Because the budget formulation and approval process are open to the public, this provides an opportunity for Marfa citizens to get engaged in how the city funds its operations and programs.
The budget is supported by revenue from property taxes, sales taxes, hotel occupancy taxes, user fees for utility services, and other miscellaneous revenue. There is another one-time revenue that is dedicated to one-time expenses. The budget is structurally balanced, meaning current revenues are paying for operating expenses.