The multi-pronged approach will include neighborhood beautification, investment in anti-gun violence programs, and a participatory budgeting cycle focused on building safe, livable neighborhoods:
BROOKLYN, NY: Gun violence is a persistent scourge on central Brooklyn that was exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. To confront it, the government needs to take a multi-pronged approach that not only tackles violence as it arises, but addresses its root causes. The Planting Our Seeds, Protecting Our Roots Initiative will combine Participatory Budgeting, neighborhood beautification, NYCHA partnerships, discretionary funding, legislation, and community engagement to achieve healthier and more peaceful neighborhoods. The first component, Participatory Budgeting, is launching this week. The office will release more information on other components of the initiative in coming weeks and months.
Participatory Budgeting
Participatory Budgeting (PB) is the process in which constituents design and vote on proposals for how to spend $1 million of City discretionary funding in their neighborhoods. It is the first point of this year’s neighborhood improvement plan. This year, Ossé’s office will work with neighbors to solicit and design proposals surrounding the theme of tackling violence on our streets. PB funds physical, public infrastructure projects and the community sends in ideas and votes on the projects that get funded. This year, Council Member Ossé will be allocating $1 million for PB and will be funding projects that will curb, mitigate, and address the issue of gun violence in our district.
To kick off our PB cycle, our office will be hosting three information sessions so the community can learn more about PB and how to get involved. The information sessions will be at 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The dates and locations of the information sessions are:
Thursday, October 13th: Restoration Plaza – 1360 Fulton Street (5th Floor Event Space)
Monday, October 17th: Collective Focus Resource Hub – 1046 Broadway
Tuesday, October 18th: Brooklyn Children’s Museum Theater – 145 Brooklyn Avenue
We would love for you all to help us spread the word and to join us in our participatory budgeting process this year!
Community members should feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns at mvutrapongvatana@council.nyc.gov or 718-919-0740.
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