Participatory Budgeting Is Coming To Fort Greene-Clinton Hill; Here Are September’s Brainstorming Dates

At last, participatory budgeting is coming to the 35th Council District!

The community-led funding project, which grants residents the power to nominate and vote for improvements in the community that need money to happen, has been something local residents of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill have long-desired for the community.

“We’ve heard you,” exclaimed Kristia Beaubrun, communications director for Councilmember Laurie Cumbo. “Now please come out to the [brainstorming] meetings!”

“Participatory budgeting is an incredible opportunity to engage and empower people of all backgrounds [and is] a renewal of the belief that everyday people possess the authority to create real change in their own community,” said Cumbo. “The success of this endeavor relies on the full participation of our youth, seniors, and families.”

The three upcoming meeting dates are:

• Wednesday, September 9 from 6:30-8:30pm at Medgar Evers College (1650 Bedford Avenue, 2nd floor, Room B2024)
• Wednesday, September 16 from 6:30-8:30pm at Friends of Crown Heights (671 Prospect Place)
• Monday, September 21 from 6:30-8:30pm at Ingersoll Community Center (177 Myrtle Avenue)

There will be $1 million to work with. Past projects funded by neighboring Councilmembers Stephen Levin and Jumaane Williams have included air conditioning and technology upgrades for schools, security cameras on commercial streets, curb extensions, and renovations to parks and libraries.

Levin’s 33rd District also pertains to many of you, so here are the relevant upcoming “neighborhood assemblies” for Downtown Brooklyn, DUMBO, Bed-Stuy, and Vinegar Hill:

• Monday, September 14, 6:30 PM, St. Francis College, 180 Remsen Street

There are so many projects that could be funded. What do you think the $1 million should be spent on?