Guest columnist Susan Hardy serves the public as a councilwoman for the City of South Euclid and as a librarian for the Cleveland Public Library.

Have you ever wondered where your tax dollars actually go? You’re not alone.

Many residents ask this question without realizing that they have the ability to find out -- and influence how those funds are spent.

One of the best ways to gain insight into your local government’s spending is to attend a city budget meeting.

Budget meetings are open to the public and offer valuable information about how decisions are made and what priorities are being funded in your community.

Most budget meetings are held in the fall before the end of the year and are advertised on your local government’s website.

Some municipalities even offer the extra courte

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