Every Thursday, DJ Pup Dawg connects with Asha, the Roxbury Liaison, to discuss the latest news and initiatives across Boston. In this episode, they are joined by Renato Castelo, Director of the Office of Participatory Budgeting, to discuss a major opportunity for residents to decide how city money is spent.

The Power of Your Vote

Renato explains the concept of Participatory Budgeting, a democratic process where Boston residents directly decide how to allocate a portion of the city’s budget. While a youth-focused version has existed in Boston for over a decade, the city recently expanded the program to include everyone.

Key highlights from this episode include:

• The $2.2 Million Decision: Residents are currently voting to narrow down 13 community-proposed ideas into the top five projects to be funded.

• Proposed Projects: Ideas on the ballot include increasing access to fresh food, youth financial literacy workshops, and installing benches at bus stops.

• Social & Racial Justice: Renato explains how the program is designed to support the residents who need it most, including formerly incarcerated youth.

• How to Get Involved: Voting is open through February 15th and is available in multiple languages at boston.gov/participate.

City Updates with Asha

Asha also shares vital resources for the community, including how to use the Boston 311 app to report neighborhood issues like potholes or housing concerns. Additionally, she discusses the city's homeless census, where city employees head out late at night to connect unhoused individuals with warm shelter and essential resources.

Don't let others decide where your tax dollars go—listen in to find out how you can have a direct say in Boston’s future!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.