A "Budget Retreat Workshop" exclusively for city council members was to be held Tuesday at the Cascades in Tyler.

The workshop was to inform the council on significant changes in the city's draft budget and possible purchases from city departments. City Manager Larry Morgan would not share possible purchases with the Bullard Banner News last week. Morgan said he does not want favoritism to appear for a particular project, which could make the council pressured into a decision.

Morgan said the council will look at three different options for a budget. The biggest change is that taxes were raised for the sinking fund, which will allow the city to pay for it without taking money from the general and utility funds.

Morgan said the city is trying to save money from rising energy and fuel costs. The city will look for more joint venture opportunities with Smith County.

Morgan said the city will have a public budget hearing in August, where the public can ask questions. He also said that he will work with the Bullard Banner News to publish a draft budget before the public meeting.