Every year, each Chicago ward receives $1.3 million in “menu money” for ward infrastructure improvements. Alderman Andre Vasquez’s 40th Ward office uses a democratic, community process called participatory budgeting (PB) that allows community members to determine how $1 million of menu money is allocated. Infrastructure improvements include alley & street resurfacing, sidewalk repairs, park improvements, speed humps, public art, and more. (The remaining $300,000 is held for emergency repairs and other needs that arise during the year.)
In early March, our office held its first PB vote with 441 people casting a ballot. The following projects have been approved:
- $700,000 for Street & Alley Resurfacings
- $170,000 Public Safety Cameras
- $120,000 Water Fountain Installations & Improvements
- $60,000 Pedestrian Island on Western & Winnemac
Looking ahead to the next PB cycle, our goal is to increase community involvement by collecting even more project proposals, adding more vetting committee members, and increasing PB voter participation. For more information, please see below.
Menu Project Submission: Have an idea for the next PB project? Submit projects you would like to be considered using this LINK. Submissions must be in by Monday, September 7.
PB Vote: All 40th Ward residents are encouraged to vote on the final projects. This will take place in the Fall.
Please use the following links for information on previous PB expenses and voting results.
- Results of PB Voting
- Previous Years’ “Menu Money” Authorized Expenses
