Community members gathered on Wednesday, April 30. They attended the annual “DotteTalk” budget conversation. The Unified Government’s (UG) Budget, Strategy, and Research Team hosted the event.
The UG reported the event brought together residents, staff, and elected officials. They gathered at the Kansas City Kansas Technical Education Center. More than 23 UG departments participated. This gave residents the chance to ask questions. They could learn more about programs, services, and the 2026 budget process.
The evening included small table talks with department leaders and roundtable discussions with budget analysts to capture community priorities. UG Budget Director Reginald Lindsey also presented an overview of the Unified Government’s finances. He covered spending, debt, revenue, and current challenges.
Lindsey will share the presentation again for residents who were unable to attend. It will be during the UG Commission meeting on Thursday, May 1, at 7 p.m. The full presentation slides are available online.
In addition to DotteTalk, the Budget, Strategy, and Research Team recently introduced OpenBook. It is a new online tool that uses interactive charts and graphs. The tool provides residents with a clearer view of city and county spending. The tool is part of the UG’s effort to increase transparency and strengthen public engagement.
The public will have an opportunity to comment on the proposed 2026 budget. This will occur during a public hearing scheduled for Thursday, June 5, at 7 p.m.
For more information about the UG Budget Department or to explore online budget data, visit the Budget Department’s webpage.
