Saratoga Springs Launches Cycle Four of Participatory Budgeting: Year of the Child
The city invites residents to participate in the city’s budget process.
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Commissioner of Finance Minita Sanghvi and the Participatory Budgeting Committee have announced the launch of Cycle Four of the City’s Participatory Budgeting program, beginning May 1, with this year’s special theme: “Year of the Child.”
Residents are invited to propose community projects that uplift and benefit children, youth, and families – funded by up to 0.25% of the City’s annual budget.
All Saratoga Springs residents aged 18 and up are encouraged to participate. Project idea submissions will be accepted from May 1 through July 31, 2025. Individuals and non-profit organizations are welcome to submit proposals.
Since its inception in 2022, the PB program has funded a number of projects benefitting local youth, including:
Free children’s art programming through C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios
– Free family-friendly programming and performances by Opera Saratoga
– Retrofitting the Saratoga Children’s Literacy League Book Bus
– Nutritional education at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, teaching children and families how to prepare meals using fresh, local ingredients
– Geyser Elementary School outdoor learning center
This year, residents are encouraged to think creatively about projects that align with the “Year of the Child” theme. Categories may include: Youth Arts and Culture; Recreation and Play; Literacy and Learning; Health and Wellness; Environmental Projects.
All ideas will be reviewed by the PB Committee and City for feasibility and impact. Selected proposals will be placed on the PB ballot later this year, and winning projects will be implemented using city funds following a citywide vote and City Council approval.
In Saratoga Springs, the process encourages local community members to participate in the city’s budget process. In its most recent cycle, the City Council approved funding for six community projects totaling $99,658.
To learn more about Participatory Budgeting or submit an idea, visit: https://saratoga-springs.org/2682/participatory-budgeting.