City Releases What We Heard Document from Budget Engagement

The City of St. John’s released the findings of its public engagement process for Budget 2019-2021 today. Over 1,000 pieces of feedback have been reviewed and compiled into 15 key theme categories, ranging from the way in which the City budgets overall to specific suggestions on how to operate more efficiently.

An infographic and the complete summary document are both available at engagestjohns.ca.

“On behalf of Council I would like to thank everyone who took the time to provide their input on this important topic,” said Councillor Dave Lane, Council lead on Finance and Administration. “From attending public meetings to commenting online, we have received a tremendous response to budget planning for the next three years and we feel confident that we have a good understanding of public perspectives.”

Budget engagement began in March, with the completion of a citizen satisfaction survey. Since then, staff and Council have held targeted meetings on issues including the vacancy allowance, properties on unserviced lots and accessible transit; drop-in sessions; town halls; Facebook live events; and, online discussion through the City’s engagement platform, which was viewed 2,800 times with more than 165 leaving comments and opinions. In early September, the City sent a proposed budget plan brochure to every household - approximately 48,000 in total - through Canada Post.

“This is the first time in the City's history that Council has shared its projected budget situation in advance of the budget announcement in December,” explained Councilor Lane. “Our goal was to engage as many people in the discussion and to do so as early as possible, and we feel we have accomplished that for this budget plan.”

The 2019-2021 City of St. John’s budget will be announced on December 10, 2018. To read the full summary document and to provide additional commentary on what was heard, please go to engagestjohns.ca.
 
Media Contact:
Kelly Maguire
Media Relations
City of St. John's
709-576-8491
kmaguire@stjohns.ca