County Evidence-Based Budgeting Guide
According to the U.S. Census, counties invest over $743 billion each year in programs and services that directly impact the lives of millions of Americans. And yet decision-makers can’t always prove that county spending decisions will produce the intended results. By investing in programs that are proven to make lives better, counties can deliver on the promise of moving their communities forward. Results for America’s County Evidence-Based Budgeting Guide is designed to help county leaders invest in what works and ensure taxpayer dollars achieve results their communities can count on. By providing evidence that government programs are effective, county leaders can ensure that they are maximizing their impact and building trust with residents.
The Guide details five action steps that county officials can take to deliver results for residents:
1. Establish a definition of evidence
2. Implement budget instructions and templates that collect evidence information
3. Establish guidelines, goals or targets for the use of evidence
4. Provide evidence indicators in public budget documents
5. Report on budget decisions made for evidence-based interventions