Specifically:
- Find out the how the change in budgeting or spending will affect people, then stress that in the lead.
- Follow up with direct quotes from people affected.
- Summarize the numbers in two to three graphs. Keep the numbers simple, easy to understand.
- This is how much money was available before.
- This is how much money will be available now.
- This is the amount of increase or decrease.
- This is the percentage increase or decrease.
- Explain the reason why this budget change is being proposed.
- The rest of the story should focus on impact. Here are some examples of impact:
- Cuts or additions to be made to programs, classes, staffing, salaries, etc.
- Increases in fees or fines.
- Finally, describe past patterns relevant to your story. For example, is this the third year in a row the college has trimmed spending for the disabled students program? Or is the second year in a row that teachers will not get a raise?
Reporting these stories can be intimidating because you are talking to budget officials who may be mired in bureaucratese. Remember your ignorance can be a blessing: Ask basic questions and get a basic understanding, then explain facts simply and clearly to readers.