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The current spending plan appropriates about $16.4 billion. The
next budget year begins in January.
A recent budget roundtable was framed as a way to give young
people an opportunity to speak with Johnson and share ideas
regarding the city's budget process. Those ages 13-24 were able
to speak with Johnson and other city officials, and those over
the age of 25 were allowed to attend but not participate.
"My office wants to hear from you to make sure that we are
meeting your needs and serving your communities," Johnson said.
"We need everyone at the table so we can invest in affordable
housing, public health, infrastructure, public art, community
safety and so much more."
Those in attendance sat in groups of their peers to discuss
their ideas, which then will be relayed to the Johnson
administration, according to Sara Mathers, deputy of Community
Engagement.
"If you find yourself talking too much, like me, shut up. Let
someone else talk," Mathers said to the group. "If you find
yourself being quiet, maybe speak up. This is your opportunity."
Johnson spoke at the event and said that he can build a budget
that works for everyone by holding these roundtables.
"With your expertise, we will build a budget based on
collaboration to ensure that our budget truly represents the
diversity of voices that live and work in the greatest city in
the world," Johnson said.
Community members in attendance used sticky notes to write down
their ideas in different "breakout rooms" that are focused on
issues like community safety.
Mathers said the open group discussion will take place after the
city creates the budget.
"This isn't a normal town hall situation where you get to stand
up and give testimony. We are going to do that later," Mathers
said. "After the budget has been created, when we present it
back to folks, then we will have an opportunity to do that."
The city will host one more budget roundtable this month with
the next step being the city publishing the budget proposal in
August. In October, Johnson will submit his budget
recommendation that will then go to the city council for
approval by Dec. 31.
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