Battle over every nickel
Battle is right. I know we've discussed on these boards the twisted incentives of government budgeting. Efficiency and thrift are discouraged by a process that rewards maximum spending and punishes thrift. In the public sector, if you don't spend it this year, you won't get it again next year.
I doubt the system can be "tweaked" into performing better. It's going to take a complete change of mindset. Well, among those who remain in government employ, anyway.