NEW YORK -UNS: New York City Civic Engagement Commission (CEC) Chair and Executive Director Dr. Sarah Sayeed announced the launch of “The People’s Money” voting phase. “The People’s Money” is New York City’s first-ever citywide participatory budgeting process. Until June 25th, all New York City residents ages 11 and older, regardless of immigration status, will be able to vote on how to spend $5 million of mayoral expense funding to address community needs.
New Yorkers living in any one of the five boroughs will be able to vote on a ballot for their borough, while those living in one of 33 equity neighborhoods will also be able to vote on a ballot for their neighborhood. Residents can vote online by inputting their zip codes. Paper ballots will also be available citywide at sites listed here. After June 25th, ballots will be tabulated, winning projects will be announced, and then be implemented starting in 2024.
The CEC will be co-hosting five flagship events, one in each borough featuring The People’s Bus, a retired Department of Corrections vehicle transformed into a mobile community center, where residents will also be able to vote. The events are:
Bronx Week Culture Festival: Grand Concourse (from 168 to 161) – May 21st
Queens Night Market: Flushing Meadows Park – June 3rd
Family & Fatherhood Fun Day: Clove Lakes Park – June 10th
Museum Mile Festival: Museum of the City of New York – June 13th
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival: Prospect Park Bandshell – June 15th
“As we work towards a more equitable city, the launch of ‘The People’s Money’ represents a significant step towards inclusiveness,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “By allowing all New York City residents to vote on how to spend $5 million of mayoral expense funding, we are empowering communities to have a direct say in addressing their needs. I encourage all eligible residents to participate in this historic participatory budgeting process and help shape the future of our great city.”
“The city budget is, in fact, the people’s money. This year, for the first time ever, New Yorkers across the city have the opportunity to weigh in directly and specifically on how your money is spent,” said NYC Chief Engagement Officer Betsy MacLean. “Big ups to the Civic Engagement Commission — leading the direct democracy charge in our city with an abiding emphasis on equity, inclusion, creativity, and joy. Please join us in this transformative effort and vote! Together we can send a powerful message that New Yorkers want, need, and love participatory budgeting!”
