City of Surrey 2020-2024 Financial Plan

DEPARTMENTAL OVERVIEW FINANCE

MISSION STATEMENT To provide expert advice, services and innovative solutions in the areas of Finance, Taxation, Risk Management and Audit Services to City departments and citizens, with a focus on the City’s values to provide “An Innovative Team Serving the Community with Integrity”. KEY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES The Finance Department provides financial expertise, risk management, internal audit services, advice and guidance to support all City operations. The department provides responsive services and innovative solutions required to streamline City processes, facilitating gains in efficiencies.

The department leads process improvements and maintains as well as sets financial practices, policies and standards. The Department’s core services include:

BUDGET This section prepares the City’s budgets and various corporate and financial reports, including quarterly reports on the City’s financial performance, for the Senior Management Team and Council to demonstrate public accountability. The Section also monitors and analyzes expenditure and revenue trends throughout the fiscal year and assists other departments in achieving their financial targets, ensuring the City meets its annual budget. FINANCIAL REPORTING & COMPLIANCE The Financial Reporting & Compliance section is responsible for statutory financial reporting, including the City’s Annual Financial Report and Local Government Data Entry (LGDE) forms. It is also responsible for preparing the annual five-year financial plan which establishes financial and programming priorities. In

Management System, providing financial system support to all City staff, and managing the City’s Internal Audit and Commodity Tax functions.

REVENUE SERVICES The Revenue Services section is

responsible for the billing and collection of property taxes as well as annual and metered utilities. It is also responsible for collecting district energy charges, dog license fees, false alarm fees, secondary suite fees, and parking tickets. It administers home owner grants, and manages tax certificates. This section provides services at City Hall, including the main reception and switchboard, and the Surrey Operations Centre. Revenue Services also oversees Accounts Payable and Contract Management; their responsibilities include making accurate, prompt supplier payments, providing

guidance for the management of contracts and tracking supplier performance.

addition, responsibilities include administering the City’s Financial

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