The County of Orange Budget & Finance Office has initiated a public input period for its upcoming 2026 Strategic Financial Plan. This engagement provides Orange County residents with an important opportunity to offer feedback that will directly inform the county's long-term financial planning processes. The deadline for submitting public comments is September 20, 2026.
The Five-Year Strategic Financial Plan (SFP) represents a foundational component of the County's comprehensive long-term fiscal management. Its design involves a methodical evaluation of competing needs across various county services and departments. A core function of this plan is to forecast future operational costs and develop robust funding recommendations to meet these anticipated expenses. This structured approach helps to ensure the County's financial stability and facilitates resource allocation that aligns with strategic goals and community expectations.
Community input is regarded as a critical element in the development of this plan, according to the County Budget & Finance Office. Public participation aids the County in gaining a deeper understanding of which services and programs are most valued by its diverse resident base. Furthermore, this feedback assists in the identification of emerging priorities within the community, enabling the County to shape its future investments based directly on these articulated needs. The overall process aims to align the County's significant financial decisions with the expressed preferences and requirements of those it serves.
To facilitate informed participation, residents are encouraged to access and review previous Strategic Financial Plan materials. Additionally, the current Fiscal Year 2026-27 Annual Budget is available for public examination. These documents provide valuable insight into the County’s major initiatives, its evolving priorities, and the associated funding needs that are currently being addressed or will be considered in the future. Understanding these existing frameworks can help residents formulate well-informed input on the upcoming plan's direction and focus.
In support of its broader “Let’s Talk Budget: Orange You Ready?” campaign, the County Budget & Finance Office has also developed new educational resources. This initiative includes a two-part video series specifically designed to help residents learn more about the detailed planning that goes into developing the County budget each year. These informational videos are available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, reaching a broader segment of the community. They can be viewed on the County’s YouTube playlist and its social media account, aiming to demystify the complex financial planning involved in managing county operations.
Beyond online submissions, the County indicates that information regarding additional opportunities for engagement, including public workshops, is available. These workshops offer another avenue for residents to participate in the planning process and engage directly with the County's financial strategists. The County emphasizes the importance of this engagement, stating, "Your Input Today. Our Community. Our Commitment."
The public comment period for the 2026 Strategic Financial Plan officially concludes on September 20, 2026. Residents wishing to contribute their perspectives on the county's financial future and priorities are encouraged to do so before this stated deadline.
