The Dalles municipal budget committee began its work on Monday, spending about three hours listening to staff presentations on the various sections of the 2025-26 fiscal plan.  In his budget message, City Manager Matthew Klebes told the panel made up of Councilors and citizen volunteers that in an era when many cities are facing budget difficulties with restricted revenue growth, increasing costs, the end of temporary funding, and compounding long-term needs, the City of The Dalles has a more positive outlook, thanks to strategic planning.  Klebes says the 25-26 budget fulfills core services focused on infrastructure and public safety while funding key economic development efforts and supporting key partners.  He notes it maintains a contingency reserve in the general fund of 10% of the budget.  The committee will continue its work Tuesday evening at 5:30 in The Dalles City Hall.