The City of Edmundston launches its first ever Participatory Budget

Mar 26, 2022

The City of Edmundston has just launched a new municipal citizen participation initiative, namely a participatory budget.

This is a democratic process by which the population decides how to invest a portion of a public budget. It can take different forms at different scales: it is a process that adapts to the realities of communities. Hundreds of cities around the world have participatory budgeting processes in which thousands of people propose projects that enrich their living environment: public squares, community gardens, sports facilities, and any other projects that are meaningful to them.

As part of the "My City, My Project" initiative, the City of Edmundston is inviting citizens to submit projects by April 30, 2022.

"We are so happy to be able to launch this great initiative, which is perfectly in line with our "Réalise Edmundston" approach, aimed at involving the population more in the decision-making process. We can't wait to see the projects that will be presented," explains Eric Marquis, Mayor of Edmundston.

Between now and April 30, Edmundston residents can submit projects via THIS FORM or by contacting the Development Department to receive a paper copy.

Among the eligibility criteria, the project must be an infrastructure investment (permanent installation) or equipment investment (that can be moved); be carried out on land or property owned by the City of Edmundston; have a useful life of at least five years; and meet the needs of the community. The project cannot serve private interests or be reserved for a single group or association of people.

Projects can be submitted in two categories, i.e. projects costing up to $10,000 and larger projects costing up to $30,000. The selected projects are fully funded by the City of Edmundston. Each project will be evaluated by the participatory budget committee made up of public servants and elected officials. The selected projects will then be submitted to a popular vote in June.

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CONTACT: François Boutot, Director, Development Services, City of Edmundston, 506.739.2125