A government budget is a comprehensive financial plan showing projected revenues (money coming in from taxes, fees, and transfers) and expenditures (spending on programs and services) for a defined period, typically one year. The budget reflects policy priorities—where governments choose to spend reveals what they value. For municipalities, budgets must balance (revenues equal expenditures). The budget process involves administration proposing spending, elected officials debating priorities, and eventual approval through formal votes. Budget documents provide transparency about public finances, allowing citizens to see how their tax dollars will be used and hold governments accountable for spending decisions.