What is Participatory Budgeting?

Participatory Budgeting (PB) is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to spend part of a public budget. The process began in Porto Alegre, Brazil in 1989. Today, there are more than 3,000 participatory budgeting processes around the world, most at the municipal level.

What is PBNYC?

In 2011, four New York City Council Members – Brad Lander, Melissa Mark-Viverito, Eric Ulrich, and Jumaane D. Williams – launched a PB process to allow residents in their district to allocate part of their capital discretionary funds. Over the years, the process has grown to include Council Members across New York City, giving communities real decision-making on an annual basis.

Participatory Budgeting in New York City (PBNYC) plays an important role in giving communities the ability to directly impact the capital budgeting process. It motivates New Yorkers to engage the civic process and make decisions by sharing ideas, developing proposals, and voting on community projects.

This year, 24 Council Members across New York City are asking residents how to spend at least $24 million in capital funding, specifically for local improvements to schools, parks, libraries and other public spaces. PBNYC funds physical infrastructure projects in public spaces, cost at least $50,000 and have a lifespan of at least 5 years.

How Does It Work?

Idea Collection

October – November
Through community meetings, residents brainstorm ideas and recruit volunteers (as known as “Budget Delegates”) for the current cycle.

Proposal Development

December – February
With support from City agencies and staff, ideas are transformed into tangible proposals. Budget Delegates then narrow down proposals and select projects that meet the needs of their community.

GOTV and Vote Week

March – April
Once final ballot projects have been determined, stakeholders get-out-the-vote (GOTV) and prepare for a nine-day districtwide vote, taking place between April 6-14, 2024.

Evaluation and Planning

May – June
Winning projects are included in the upcoming Fiscal Year budget in June. Staff and stakeholders evaluate the process and oversee the implementation of funded projects by City agencies.

Contact pbnyc@council.nyc.gov with questions or inquiries.