FY 2013 Operating and Capital Budget - Metro Transit

Capital Budget External Review and Approval Process
The capital budget is then considered under an external review and approval process.
The Gateway Arch budget is approved by the National Park Service. Each of the Transit
System’s funding jurisdictions has a separate approval process. In St. Louis County,
Metro’s budget is reviewed and recommended by the Public Transportation Commission
and advanced to the County Executive. The County Executive submits a bill to the
County Council, which debates and acts upon the bill. In the City of St. Louis, the Ways
and Means Committee of the Board of Aldermen reviews the bill prior to adoption of
funding ordinances by the Board. Subsequently, the Board of Estimates and
Apportionment authorizes payments. In Illinois, Metro contracts with the St. Clair
County Transit District (District) for funds for operations and capital acquisition. Metro,
with approval of the District, applies for grants from the Illinois Department of
Transportation.
East-West Gateway has a rigorous review process for the TIP, an important part of
Metro’s overall budget. That process includes public hearings and committee review
prior to consideration for approval by its Board of Commissioners. After Council
approval, the TIP is forwarded to the Illinois Department of Transportation and the
Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission for review and inclusion in each
state’s Transportation Improvement Program. Final review by the Federal Transit
Administration is required for grant application and receipt of federal funds.
Operating and Capital Budget Amendment Process
A budget amendment for either the operating or capital budget is deemed necessary when
a shortfall requiring the identification of additional funds is created by a significant event
that could not have been reasonably foreseen at the time of budget adoption.
Additionally, an amendment may be necessary due to local, state or federal government
action. Presentation of the amendment to the Board of Commissioners is necessary,
identifying proposed changes along with the justification and funding mechanism.
Adoption by a majority of the Board formally amends the budget.
The budget and grant approval process is illustrated on the next page.
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