District 7 residents came out in droves tonight to contribute to the third year for one of Canada’s most ambitious participatory budgeting projects, and vote on how to spend $94,000 on citizen-led initiatives.
“It is amazing and humbling to see residents of Halifax South Downtown come and say what matters to them,” said Councillor Waye Mason. “We had record numbers of participants, families, students, and folks of all ages come out and vote.”
Eligible projects were present for a science fair style event where residents of District 7 could ask questions before voting on five projects. This year 335 residents cast a ballot, up from 260 in 2014 and 120 in 2013.
Full funding was provided to Le Marchant St Thomas for a playground at $20,000.00; OPEN Projects urban furniture on the Halifax Waterfront for $4,000.00; Speedy Kids Oval Program skate equipment for $5,000.00;Spring Garden Area bike racks and beautification for $20,000.00; Halifax Cycle Coalition picnic tables & bike racks for $15,695.00; Peter Green Hall Green space enhancements for $20,000.00, and; Park to Park for Gorsebrook benches and signage, $4,500.00. Partial funding of $4805.00 was also provided to Halifax Minor Baseball for dugouts at Conrose field.
“It is really difficult to chose when all the projects are so exciting, but the residents wishes were clear.” added Mason.
Proposals will now be vetted by HRM staff and pending policy and due diligence by staff organizations should receive their funding in four to six weeks.
MORE INFO ON D7 Participatory Budgeting:
- What is participatory budgeting?
- For more information on applying click here.
- For important dates and deadlines click here.