Fort Lauderdale's Budget Advisory Board is taking significant steps to enhance community engagement in the budgeting process through a new interactive tool called "Balancing Act." During the recent meeting on July 16, 2025, board members emphasized the importance of public participation in shaping the city's financial decisions.

The Balancing Act platform allows residents to simulate the role of city managers by providing feedback on budget allocations and priorities. While the tool has attracted a few hundred users, actual submissions remain low, highlighting a need for increased community involvement. Board members encouraged their peers and neighborhood leaders to promote the tool actively, aiming to boost participation and ensure that a broader range of voices is heard in the budgeting process.

The board discussed strategies to enhance outreach, suggesting that neighborhood leaders could play a pivotal role in informing residents about the tool. By fostering a culture of engagement, the board hopes to gather more substantial data that reflects the community's sentiments on budgetary matters.

As the city prepares for its next public hearing, the insights gathered from Balancing Act will be shared with the commission, ensuring that community recommendations are considered in future financial planning. The board's commitment to transparency and engagement marks a proactive approach to budgeting, aiming to create a more inclusive process that resonates with Fort Lauderdale's diverse population.