Public budget consultation is the process through which municipalities seek resident input on spending priorities before finalizing annual budgets. Methods include public meetings, online surveys, town halls, advisory committees, and increasingly, participatory budgeting where residents directly allocate portions of the budget. Effective consultation helps councils understand community priorities—whether residents prefer lower taxes, enhanced services, or specific improvements. While councils retain final budget authority, public input informs their decisions and increases budget legitimacy. Consultation quality varies widely; some municipalities conduct extensive outreach while others offer minimal opportunities for meaningful engagement.