The process, which is called Participatory Budgeting, was initiated in Halifax in 2013 by Councillor Mason. He held two public sessions in summer of 2014 – the first was an open exchange of ideas on how to spend the money and a vote was held at the second. The selected projects included funds for a new search and rescue vehicle for Halifax Regional Search and Rescue Team, bicycle repair stands on Dalhousie University campus and a scaffolding installation on Argyle Street during the building of Trade Centre. In District 8 last year, residents supported playgrounds, increasing accessibility for community buildings and signage for the Africville Museum.

Councillor Watts says “It will be really exciting to see the great suggestions and ideas that will come from community and neighbourhood groups for making District 8 and our municipality a better place to live. This is seed money to grow great neighbourhood initiatives.”

District 7 – Councillor Waye Mason Participatory Budgeting Sessions

• Monday, April 13th – Idea Swap and Information Session, 7-8:30pm, Halifax Central Library, room 301 Tuesday, May 5th – Proposal Deadline (via email or mail)(residents from both districts can attend)
• Tuesday, May 19th- Voting Day, 6-9pm, Halifax Central Library, Lindsay Children’s room

For more information or questions regarding District 7 Participatory Budgeting, please contact Jessica Bradley by phone 902- 490-2625 or email bradlej@halifax.ca

District 8 – Councillor Jennifer Watts Participatory Budgeting Sessions

• Wednesday, April 1st- Idea Swap and Information Session, 7-8:30pm, Italian Cultural Centre Friday, May 1st- Proposal Deadline (via email or mail) (residents from both districts can attend)
• Thursday, June 4th- Voting Day, 6-9pm, Italian Cultural Centre, 2629 Agricola St

For more information or questions regarding District 8 Participatory Budgeting, please contact Nadine Yuriev by phone 902-490- 1577 or email yurievn@halifax.ca

For more information, forms, deadlines, and history visit http://wayemason.ca/pb