The article highlights the participatory budgeting process in District 7, San Francisco, where residents influence local projects funded by a portion of the city's revenue. Initiatives like a giant octopus mural and digital literacy courses emphasize local engagement, stemming from a concept introduced in 1980s Brazil. Despite District 7 being the only one maintaining this practice, it signals potential for city-wide participation. Supervisor Myrna Melgar notes the challenges involved, but the process enriches community connection and civic responsibility, addressing how direct resident involvement in spending decisions fosters a stronger local government bond.
It's a lot of work for the staff, said Supervisor Myrna Melgar, who added that the heavy lift involved is likely why her colleagues do not run their own participatory budget.
Setting up a system where neighborhoods could take a sliver of city revenue, propose local uses for it, and then vote directly on those proposals, was a red-hot civic trend.
#participatory-budgeting #community-engagement #local-government #civic-responsibility #san-francisco
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