This document discusses financial management for public works departments. It covers several key topics: 1) Budgeting - Budgets must be prepared, approved by elected officials, and balanced. They are used to manage resources like money, people and time. 2) Operating Funds - Departments use general funds from taxes and utility funds from service fees. Funds can only be used for their intended purpose with permission. Fees, rates and interfund agreements generate additional revenue. 3) Capital Financing - Capital projects use current revenue, debt through bonds, grants, and sometimes private partnerships which provide alternative financing methods. Maintaining reasonable tax and utility rates is important.