How Should We Spend $1 Million?

The 46th Ward is among 4 wards in Chicago that is engaging in "participatory budgeting" for the use of its menu funds. Through this process, any resident age 16 & up can vote on infrustructure projects that they or other residents recommend to improve the 46th Ward. This process has been a huge success in Joe Moore's 49th Ward where it was first tried three years ago and Alderman Cappleman is excited to bring this program to our ward. 

Through the City of Chicago's menu fund program, each ward receives over one million dollars for capital budget projects, with the vast majority of these funds used for street & alley repaving and additional lighting. In the past, some funds have been used for parks and playground improvements, tree planting, and public art projects. (Funds are restricted for capital improvement projects that will last a year or more.)

Beginning this week, the alderman will host a series of community meetings to describe the process for you to submit an idea for funding, along with an explanation of voting. For more information on our participatory budgeting process and updates, please visit the 46th Ward website here. 

This is a new process for all of us to try, and it is labor-intensive. It is worth it because, in the end, it strengthens our resolve to work together to strengthen our community. 

Neighborhood Assembly Meetings:

• Wednesday, October 10 – 6:00-8:00PM
  Anshe Emet Synagogue, 3751 North Broadway

• Wednesday, October 17 – 7:00-9:00PM
  Thorek Hospital, 850 West Irving Park Road

• Saturday, October 20 – 10:00AM-12:00PM
  Uplift Community High School, 900 West Wilson Ave

• Wednesday, October 24 – 6:00-8:00PM
  Stockton Elementary School, 4425 North Beacon Street

• Tuesday, October 30 – 7:00-9:00PM
  People’s Church, 941 West Lawrence