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Content current as of 08/24/26

Balancing Act

The Balancing Act tool is Tacoma’s interactive budget simulator. It gives Tacoma residents a chance to better understand the City’s budget challenges and the difficult choices involved in balancing spending and revenue.​

The City is facing a projected $40 million General Fund gap for 2027–2028. Using this tool, residents can explore the budget, adjust spending and limited revenue options, and share where they believe resources should be prioritized.​

Most spending categories can be adjusted by up to 20%, while some areas cannot be changed because of legal or financial restrictions.​

Your input will help the City better understand community priorities while giving residents a clearer picture of the services the City provides and the trade-offs required to close the budget gap.​

Balancing Act Tool

Try Balancing Act, Tacoma's interactive budget simulator. Explore budget choices, see the tradeoffs, and share what matters most to you.
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Balancing Act Tutorial 

​Before you get started, watch this tutorial to learn how to navigate the Balancing Act tool, adjust spending and revenue, and submit your priorities.