ARLINGTON — The Arlington City Council approved a biennial budget process March 7.

State law authorizes cities to establish a biennial budget process, but a council must adopt it at least six months before the beginning of the biennium, which must start on an odd-numbered year.

City finance director Kristin Garcia collected feedback from cities that implemented a biennial budget process.

“Moving to a biennial budget will provide greater efficiency in the ‘off-year’ and allow us an opportunity to focus on strategic planning, building long-term financial plans and discussing fiscal policy,” Garcia said.

City administrator Paul Ellis added: “Focusing on a long-term perspective gives the council an opportunity to think strategically about financial policy and sustainability, instead of balancing the budget on a year-to-year basis.”

During its upcoming retreat April 9-10, the council and city staff will set priorities and prepare for the 2017-18 budget development and calendar.