A budget increase refers to additional spending beyond the previous year's level or above the baseline needed to maintain existing services. Increases may fund new programs, expand services, hire additional staff, or address previously unmet needs. Budget increases above inflation and growth typically require either higher taxes or cuts elsewhere to maintain balance. Council deliberations often focus on proposed increases—whether they are justified, whether residents are willing to pay more, and whether the proposed spending is the best use of available funds. Budget increases are usually itemized separately from the base budget to distinguish new spending from maintaining current services.