The City Council was told Tuesday that the Berke administration wants time to prepare its first budget.
Andrew Kean, chief operating officer, requested 60-90 days beyond the normal deadline of the end of June.
He said in the meantime the city would continue operating based on 1/12th amounts of various city cost centers.
Mr. Kean said the administration plans a budget that is "based on priorities, not tradition."
He said an important factor will be community input.
Councilman Russell Gilbert agreed with the delay.
He said, "I don't want a rush job."
Councilwoman Carol Berz, who heads the budget committee, said the council will take about three weeks - or longer if necessary - to review the submitted budget.