How would you spend $10 million (in public funds) to improve the city? Metro is putting the checkbook in your hand.
Enter: Nashville’s participatory budgeting process. From start to finish, it’s designed for residents to propose projects and then vote on which ones receive funding.
While participatory budgeting isn’t new to Nashville, this year marks Metro’s first-ever venture into citywide participatory budgeting. Voting is now underway to determine how to spend $10 million.
What’s on the ballot
The ballot includes 35 potential projects — one in each of the 35 council districts — selected through a participatory budget delegate process that began in June (the group considered 1,321 submissions).
The projects, with individual budgets ranging from $50,000 to $1.75 million, are primarily decided to park improvements and pedestrian safety enhancements.
How it works
The funding for a project is determined by two factors: the Social Vulnerability Index score of the area where it is located and the number of votes. According to Metro, projects receiving the most support will be funded in descending order until all $10 million in participatory budgeting funds are allocated.
How to vote
Davidson County residents age 14 and older can vote online via HubNashville or in-person at any Nashville Public Library location through Thursday, Nov. 30. Note: You can vote for up to five projects total.
Ready to get started? Read up on the 35 projects + cast your ballot at the button below.