This article explains the reasons for involving the public in the budgetary process, including greater transparency, better communication about revenues, expenses and budgetary obligations; and to show how budgeting allocates limited resources in a community. Gives five options for public participation in the budgetary process: public outreach, surveys, budget advisory committees, workshops, and public forms; then explains how staff members can utilize these options. © 2009 League of California Cities. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission from the November 2008 issue of Western City magazine, the monthly publication of the League of California Cities. For more information, visit www.westerncity.com.