An estimated 1200 municipalities and institutions around the world use a participatory budget process, yet none in the United States. The 49th Ward in Chicago plans to be the first.
An initiative led by a Brown Sociology Professor Gianpaolo Baiocchi is leading the initiative with the cooperation of the Ward Alderman, Joe Moore. Several initial workshops have been held, and throughout the next year, public assemblies will take place in which citizens will be able to voice their opinions toward how their ward’s money is spent. Watch this site for updates.