What must the budget summary publication include regarding the previous year?

The budget summary publication must include specific financial details from the previous year to provide a clear and comprehensive view of the municipality's fiscal health and performance. Including the principal and interest paid, along with the total remaining debt, allows stakeholders such as citizens, government officials, and investors to understand the burden of past financial obligations and how they have been managed.

This information is critical for evaluating the municipality's financial practices and commitments. Not only does it demonstrate transparency in financial operations, but it also helps in making informed decisions for future budgets. By presenting both principal payments and interest costs, the publication gives a complete picture of debt service, which is an essential aspect of the overall budget narrative.

In contrast, other options lack the comprehensive approach needed for a budget summary. Focusing solely on new expenditures or just the totals of remaining debt does not capture the full scope of financial practices. Similarly, listing all budget amendments does not provide necessary insights into the municipality's debt management or the consequences of these financial decisions. Therefore, the choice to include principal and interest paid, as well as total remaining debt, is vital for transparency and accountability in the budget process.