The operating plan shall contain the following:

1. (1) A brief statement of existing district programs;
2. (2) The district’s long-term and short-term goals in regard to local resource concerns and needs;
3. (3) Specific activities for the upcoming year, defined in a plan of work, to accomplish the district’s goals;

4. (4)

   1. (A) A budget itemizing use of district funds to accomplish the activities.
   2. (B) Proposed annual budget due by September 1 each year.

   3. (C) The proposed budget:

      1. (i) Must reflect the proposed operating revenue and expenditures; and
      2. (ii) Will incorporate any financial goals stated in the annual operating plan;
5. (5) An assessment of last year’s activities and the effectiveness in accomplishing district goals (due by September 1); and
6. (6) An assessment of the thistle problem, if any, within the district, proposed methods of thistle control and eradication, and an assessment of the effectiveness of the last year’s efforts to control and eradicate the thistle.