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SJRWMD FY 2017-2018 Final Budget Changes and Trends The District continues to maintain a proactive outreach program. New technology and electronic media, such as social media, e -newsletters and websites have helped streamline delivery of information and expand the reach of the educational programs. Beginning in FY 2016-17, funds for the Outreach Program have been divided among water resource education, public information and lobbying. While these activities have been implemented each year, budgeting for the individual activities is intended to heighten transparency and clarity. Increased emphasis is being placed on sharing project information with the media and public, expanding programs for students and teachers, enhancing communications with legislators and more active participation in the legislative process. Focus also will be given to heightening social media presence, ensuring information is readily available and easily accessible on the District's website, and developing and implementing strategic communications plans for District priorities. Budget Variances The program budget has a 3.5 percent decrease ($41,200) compared to the FY 2016-17 amended budget primarily due to a 6 percent reduction in Salaries and Benefits ($62,242) that is partially offset by a $30,000 increase under Interagency Expenditures. If the program variance > ±10 percent, major object variances > ±5 percent will be explained and if the program variance < ±10 percent, major object variances > ±10 percent will be explained. • A 6 percent decrease under Salaries and Benefits is due to a net reduction of 1 FTE that redirected to another program/activity. • Contracted Services will decrease by 35.4 percent due solely to a reduction in Computer Technology Services ($9,850). • Operating Capital Outlay budget will be reduced by 100 percent due to no new budgeted expenses for Office Furniture/Equipment over $1,000 ($1,692). • Water for Florida's Future Water Conservation Program ($30,000) under Interagency Expenditures. Major Budget Items (items >$100,000 or >5 percent of total activity budget) Major budget items -for this activity include the following: • Salaries and Benefits — $981,971 for 10.4 FTEs 0 5.1 Water Resource Education (1 FTE) 0 5.2 Public Information (8.5 FTEs) 0 5.4 Lobbying/Legislative Affairs/Cabinet Affairs (0.9 FTE) Page 50 -5-A.51