The board and the committee would tell you that is exactly what happens. However, I agree with you that the process as currently done is a farce.

I'm not sure seeing the budget beforehand gives anyone an advantage if the final decisions are made before the budget is even composed. Do any comments made either before or after the approval process really gain any traction? When four members agree what the budget will be it's a done deal.

Not sure what you mean. The GM prepares the budget for board review and approval, per the bylaws. If association members wish to comment on the proposed budget they cannot do so if they cannot see the proposed budget. As a practical matter, having the proposed budget only available in the Admin lobby is effectively preventing the vast majority of association members from seeing the proposed budget.